Effective from Nov. 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026, this order requires all persons, except patients, in patient-care areas of skilled nursing facilities to wear a face mask during the period deemed the designated winter respiratory virus period by the health officer, with limited exemptions.

It applies only in skilled nursing facilities, and not other health care facilities, and only to staff, workers and visitors in patient-care areas, including patients’ rooms, lobbies, waiting rooms, examination rooms, and hallways used by patients. It does not include administrative offices or staff break areas. Persons with certain medical or other conditions are exempted from the order. 

Read the full text of the order:
HO Order F25-1