Dear Minister, as you know, even if there is no shortage of subjects under your direction, I do not write to you often. However, let me tell you about the mask.
• Read also: Here’s how much the future boss of Santé Québec will earn
Eh yes. Sorry. I know, it’s yet another wishful thinking. But what do you want? I still have hope.
As you know, emergencies are overflowing more than ever. The respiratory virus season is virulent. So, don’t you think that it would be time, for prevention, to impose the wearing of masks in clinics and hospitals?
Storm
And above all, to ensure that employees, politely, apply it for themselves and patients? At least, while the viral storm passes.
Small illustration among others: this week, I waited a long time in a large university hospital in Montreal to see a doctor. It is clearly indicated that wearing a mask is compulsory for everyone.
However, the staff does not ensure compliance with the said rule. When I kindly asked an employee to inform patients without masks in the same waiting room, she told me to file a complaint. Another ignored me.
Result: as people are tired – this is understandable – both users and staff, some wear the mask, others do not or even wear it under the nose or chin.
As an individual and group prevention measure – including in crowded elevators (!) – admit Mr. Dubé that it is not bad.
Imperfect, but effective
Waiting at the hospital or a clinic only to wake up with COVID, a real flu or RSV caught on site because you were in contact with unmasked contagious people, admit that it is nevertheless avoidable.
Faced with respiratory viruses, the mask is certainly imperfect, but its effectiveness, if worn by most people in a closed place, is well established. I know you know this better than anyone.
So. My sword in the water ends here. In the hope that, against all odds, he will still do useful work.
With all respect,
Josée