Changes to masking requirements at Nova Scotia Health facilities

Effective December 18, 2025 Masking Is required upon entry and throughout Nova Scotia Health facilities.

Masks are not required in:

• Administrative buildings
• Private offices, nursing stations, or conference rooms (if no patients are present)
• Cafeterias (when seated)
• Patient bed-spaces (for patients, partners, and visitors).  
• Some other exceptions may be allowed in specific cases. Please check with staff.

Additional Information:

• Masking in non-acute care clinics (e.g., Primary Health, Collaborative Care) is at the discretion of staff.
• NSH Long-Term Care Facilities refer to: A Guide to Respiratory Virus Infection and Outbreak Management in Long-Term Care Facilities.
• Infection, Prevention and Control may issue additional guidance as part of outbreak management.

Pre-appointment patient screening

Respiratory screening prior to an in-person appointment at a Nova Scotia Health facility should be completed via a letter or a phone call in advance of the appointment.

For additional guidance on communicable diseases contact OHSWMatters@nshealth.ca or your zone Occupational Health Safety & Wellness department.