Nova Scotia Health will no longer require people to wear masks when entering its facilities, unless they are symptomatic.

The health authority updated its rules on Tuesday, stating that it will continue to monitor levels of respiratory illness, including COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

In a memo posted on its website, it said it’s confident in the change.

“Further adjustments to masking will be made in response to local epidemiology, which may include a return to universal masking during future seasons of increased viral respiratory activity,” it said.

Last October, the health authority had reinstated masking requirements due to a rise in COVID-19 cases and the coming influenza season.

The health authority said masks must still be worn by people who have symptoms of a respiratory illness. They may also be required during clinical interactions, following an assessment.