rich 1.0 Action Network https://actionnetwork.org <link href='https://actionnetwork.org/css/style-embed-v3.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' /><script src='https://actionnetwork.org/widgets/v6/letter/keep-and-improve-masks-in-healthcare-spring-2025?format=js&source=widget'></script><div id='can-letter-area-keep-and-improve-masks-in-healthcare-spring-2025' style='width: 100%'><!-- this div is the target for our HTML insertion --></div> DoNoHarm BC https://actionnetwork.org/groups/donoharmbc-2 https://can2-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/share_options/facebook_images/000/532/440/original/KeepMasks2025-16x9.png BC currently requires masks in government-run medical settings, but has signaled they plan to drop these protections this spring. Past removal of mask rules drew heavy criticism from patients, doctors, researchers, and BC’s Human Rights Commissioner, and masks have been restored twice so far in two years. Inconsistent mask requirements mean inconsistent safety. Vulnerability isn’t seasonal, and both patients and frontline workers need a reliable baseline of safety - not policies that shift with the weather. Contagious illnesses remain a risk throughout the year, particularly in buildings full of sick people. Shifting rules lead to confusion, while unnecessary healthcare infections harm patients, contribute to staff shortages, and increase costs for our healthcare system. This spring, we call on BC policy-makers to keep and strengthen healthcare mask protections with these practical steps: 1. Maintain mask requirements in BC healthcare year-round. 2. Provide clear direction to all health authorities on concrete steps to enact this mask requirement, in order to avoid reported gaps in implementation. 3. Increase usage of N95-equivalent masks or better (respirators), as the only masks rated to properly protect against airborne pathogens like H5N1, measles, and COVID-19. 4. Close gaps in coverage, including in areas like hallways where patients often need to wait. Direct private healthcare settings to meet the same minimum mask requirements as government facilities. https://actionnetwork.org/letters/keep-and-improve-masks-in-healthcare-spring-2025