Mandatory masking is back at health facilities across Prince Edward Island as public health officials work to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.

The newest numbers from Canada’s respiratory virus surveillance report show that during the week ending Oct. 4, COVID-19 activity was increasing on the Island, with about 20 per cent of tests coming back positive. Nationally, the average was under 10 per cent.

“I always wear the mask, maybe that’s why I don’t have a cold,” said Hilary Prince, outside Charlottetown’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital as she pulled one out of her purse.

Inside, visitors are required to wear masks when within two metres of any patient, resident or client. Maureen Arsenault said she supports the measure.