Mask mandates will return to health-care settings across British Columbia starting next week, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry says.

Dr. Henry said on Sept. 28 that masks must be worn by all health care workers, volunteers, contractors, and visitors in patient care areas beginning Oct. 3.

“Yes, it is a requirement and, yes, I do expect that people will comply with that,” she said at a press conference.

Dr. Henry said the guidelines are being introduced amid a rise in respiratory virus infections, including COVID-19, within the province.