Masks will soon be mandatory at Newfoundland and Labrador health-care facilities again.

The province’s health authority says the mask mandate, effective at 8 A.M. Nov. 4, is necessary due to “an increase in respiratory illnesses and outbreaks across Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services (NLHS) facilities.”

NLHS says the decision is based on “current epidemiology, vaccination rates, and the health authority’s capacity to provide care during increased respiratory illness.”

As of Wednesday, Nov. 4, all health-care workers, volunteers, clients receiving ambulatory services, and visitors are required to wear masks in all areas where patients, clients, residents families, and essential-care partners are present or receiving care, including nursing stations.

Masks will be required at all inpatient, ambulatory care settings, and long-term care facilities.

The health authority says the new mask requirement will be reviewed and is expected to end March 31, 2027.