New universal masking policy in effect at SickKids

Effective today, everyone age 6 and older is required to wear a hospital-provided mask at SickKids. We will provide you with a mask when you arrive at the hospital. This policy also applies to staff, family caregivers, visitors, vendors, suppliers, and contractors.  

If patients of any age are not able to wear a mask safely, they will not have to. Younger children may be asked to wear a mask if they are COVID-19 positive or have COVID-19 risk factors (travel history, exposure to COVID-19, or symptoms) and can safely wear a mask.

If you choose to wear a cloth mask or a mask with a filter, or exhalation valve, you will also have to wear a hospital-provided mask on top. Gloves are not allowed in the hospital – instead we ask that you clean your hands often with hand sanitizer.

Mask exemption cards are not accepted at SickKids. Exceptions will only be considered for family caregivers with medical conditions that prevent them from safely wearing a mask and must be approved by the patient’s SickKids health-care team in advance.

Why are we asking everyone to wear a mask?

Physical distancing is not always possible and wearing a mask helps to protect everyone at the hospital, including you and your child, from the spread of COVID-19. 

Where can I learn more about the masking policy?

You can find more information about the universal masking policy as well as frequently asked questions about family/caregiver and patient masking on our COVID-19 Information Hub.