Physicians offer advice on what to do as restrictions are eased

Doctors Manitoba is advising the public to continue wearing a mask when visiting a doctor’s office or other medical facilities, even after provincial pandemic restrictions change on March 15. 

“Wearing a mask in a medical facility helps to keep everybody protected, especially when COVID-19 is still circulating in our communities,” said Dr. Kristjan Thompson, President of Doctors Manitoba. ​“Clinics, hospitals and other health facilities must offer a safe environment, especially when many who seek medical care could be at increased risk from COVID-19.” 

While provincial restrictions are changing on March 15, several precautions will continue to be in place in doctors’ offices, medical clinics, hospitals and other medical facilities to reduce the risks from COVID-19. Specific precautions may vary based on the clinical environment, but generally these measures include:

• Requiring patients and visitors to screen and report COVID-19 symptoms before entering
• Requiring patients and visitors to wear masks
• Continuing the use of personal protective equipment by physicians and staff
• Offering virtual visits as an option for some medical issues

Physicians also recommend Manitobans continue to take precautions as government restrictions are lifted next week. 

“COVID-19 is still with us so it is important to understand the risks to you and others and take precautions to reduce the risk, even as pandemic restrictions are loosened,” explained Dr. Thompson. ​“Manitobans can get current information at New​COVID​Nor​mal​.ca, a resource maintained by physicians to help Manitobans during this stage of the pandemic.”

Doctors Manitoba has launched New​COVID​Nor​mal​.ca to help Manitobans understand the current risks, who is more vulnerable, and what everyone can do to help. Over the next several weeks, physicians recommend Manitobans do the following to help:

• Understand the risks by visiting New​COVID​Nor​mal​.ca
  
• Wear a mask that is good quality and well-fitted
  
• Get vaccinated and boosted, especially as easing restrictions increase risks for those who haven’t been fully vaccinated and boosted.
  
• Reconnect with others gradually by keeping contacts at a reasonable level and finding fresh air whenever possible.
  
• Stay home when ill to avoid spreading COVID to others.
  

The New​COVID​Nor​mal​.ca resource was created based on public health advice and with the input of physicians with a wide variety of expertise, including in infectious diseases, public health, family medicine, critical care, geriatrics, pediatrics.