The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is moving back to routine infection prevention and control protocols effective Tuesday. That means masking will no longer be required for patients/residents, staff or visitors. Masking will be optional in all SHA facilities including administrative offices, hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities.

The government says the changes are supported by Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Health Officer.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) that may include masks, gowns or gloves, will still be required for staff and visitors during outbreaks or in specific high-risk clinical areas as per SHA infection control policies.

Those health care staff, patients, residents and visitors who wish to wear a mask will still find a supply available.  The government is also ending physical distancing and eliminating restrictions on food sharing and food donations.

Privately-run physician’s offices, clinics and other non-SHA facilities set their own policies regarding infection prevention and control, including policies requiring masking onsite.

eHealth Saskatchewan is decommissioning the SK Vax Wallet mobile device application. Starting April 17, the app will no longer accept updates and you won’t even be able to find it in app stores by the end of the month.  If you want your COVID-19 vaccination record you can obtain it from your MySaskHealth Record account.

The Government of Saskatchewan says COVID-19 vaccine is still available for those 18 years of age and older in long-term care facilities, personal care homes and assisted living facilities; persons over 80 years of age; persons 65-79 years of age who have not had COVID; and those who are 18 years of age and older who are immune suppressed.