NL Health Services is not imposing mandatory masking in health care settings, but it is offering an update on its masking guidelines in light of a steep increase in flu cases and rising COVID cases in the province.

Confirmed COVID cases were on the rise in October while confirmed influenza cases saw a steep jump in the last few weeks.

Flu-related hospitalizations also increased according to the new respiratory illness dashboard unveiled last week.

NL Health Services is continuing to monitor cases, hospitalizations and outbreaks, but for now, masking is encouraged for visitors to health care settings, and could be mandatory if there is an outbreak at a facility.

In the meantime, while people experiencing symptoms are asked to stay home, if you must visit a health care facility you are required to wear a mask.