The following items were discussed at the December 9, 2025 open meeting of the Erie Shores HealthCare Board of Directors.

Masking Returns

Effective Monday, Dec. 15, 2025, masking will be mandatory for all staff and physicians within 2 metres of a patient during direct patient care. This applies across all clinical care settings.

Current respiratory virus indicators include projected increases in influenza and RSV over the next two weeks. Locally, influenza cases have risen in the community and within the hospital, with several cases reported.

Additional masking and respiratory etiquette guidance remains in place:

• Non-clinical areas: Masking is not required in non-clinical spaces such as cafeterias, offices and hallways unless otherwise directed.
• Patients with ARI symptoms: Must wear a medical mask when outside their bedspace (if tolerated) and in outpatient areas such as the Emergency Department and Diagnostic Imaging (if tolerated).
• Visitors: Visitors with respiratory symptoms are recommended to avoid entering the hospital. All visitors are advised to wear a medical mask while visiting.

Mobile Medical Support

ESHC provided an update on the Mobile Medical Support program, which continues to help improve access to COVID-19 and flu vaccines across Essex County. Community clinics remain available through a publicly shared calendar, coordinated with local health system partners. 

The team also supports in-home vaccination for eligible homebound residents through Ontario Health at Home referrals and direct access for those not currently receiving in-home services. This approach helps reach rural and higher-need areas and complements vaccination options available through primary care and pharmacies.

Seasonal Respiratory Paediatric Clinic

The hospital is once again operating a seasonal respiratory clinic for children and youth aged 0 to 18. The clinic runs on Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. through March 31, 2026. Families can access the clinic as walk-ins at the Emergency Department or book appointments on the hospital’s website. 

This clinic supports the hospital’s surge plan by offering a focused pathway for paediatric respiratory illness during peak season.

Community Vaccine Information

ESHC is reinforcing public health guidance on the three main seasonal respiratory vaccines and prevention programs. This includes COVID-19 vaccination for Ontarians aged six months and older, annual influenza vaccination for those aged six months and older, with an emphasis on higher-risk groups, and provincially funded RSV vaccination and prevention programs for eligible older adults, infants, and high-risk children. 

Community members are encouraged to confirm eligibility and access options through the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, local pharmacies or primary care providers.