As of today, masking is required at all clinical areas in hospitals and health-care facilities, including congregate living and long-term care facilities.

This applies to visitors and support persons, clients, patients and health-care workers.

NL Health Services says the requirement is due to an increase in respiratory illness.

Masking guidelines will be re-evaluated on March 31.

The public is also reminded that self-screening for COVID-19 and respiratory illness remains in effect and physical distancing is encouraged to the greatest extent possible.