Face masks returning to public hospitals

Perth’s public hospitals are bringing back mask wearing requirements in response to surging COVID-19 cases, with the private health sector recommended to follow suit.

From Monday, public hospital staff and patients will be required to wear surgical masks in high-risk hospital clinical areas such as haematology, oncology, organ transplant and renal dialysis, and around vulnerable patients in settings like intensive care units.

Private hospitals and aged care facilities across the state are also being implored to consider strengthening their mask wearing requirements for staff and visitors.

The Department of Health's new measures come in response to an increase in COVID-19 infections, hospitalisations and health staff off sick in Western Australia.

There were 531 COVID-19 cases reported, an increase of 14 per cent from the week prior, according to the state government's latest data period between November 6 and 12. 

That figure includes 57 new hospital admissions, four cases taken to the intensive care unit and four deaths. 

WA Chief Health Officer Dr Andy Robertson said COVID-19 cases had been increasing since early September 2023 – primarily driven by the Omicron XBB variant EG.5.

“It’s an expected part of the ongoing evolution of COVID-19 in the community as people’s immunity wanes over time,” he said.

“Given the increase in COVID hospitalisations and health staff off sick, Health Service Providers have agreed on consistent mask recommendations across our public health system.”

Dr Robertson said he also advised private hospitals and aged care facilities to consider re-deploying mask wearing requirements for employees and visitors.

“COVID is very much still with us and my advice for the community remains the same – stay home if you are sick and do not visit high risk settings such as aged care facilities and hospitals if you have cold or flu symptoms,” he said.

“Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings or where physical distancing is not possible and get a booster COVID-19 vaccination – particularly if you have complex health issues or are over 65.”

Infection prevention and control measures and precautions – including wearing P2/N95 masks – when caring for suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases will continue to be implemented.

The state government said it would continue to monitor and review the hospital mask wearing requirement on an ongoing basis.