The Ontario government is extending its mask mandate in high risk settings until June 11.

Ontario is in the middle of the sixth wave with more infections now than in most the two year pandemic. With vaccination, for many the COVID-19 virus isn’t as severe. However, some remain vulnerable to the virus – including those in medical care.

The Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Keiran Moore, announced the mandate would stake in place today saying “I am maintaining masking requirements in specific public settings where individuals who are, or may be, at increased risk of severe outcomes, are in close contact for extended periods of time.

“Continuing to follow masking requirements and keeping up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations are the best ways we can prevent transmission and protect our friends, families, and our communities.”

Moore says public transit;health care settings (e.g., hospitals, doctors’ offices, clinics that provide health care services, laboratories, specimen collection centres, and home and community care);long-term care homes;retirement homes; andshelters and other congregate care settings that provide care and services to medically and socially vulnerable individuals will continue requiring masks until June 11.