Reinstating masks in medical settings and services accessed by vulnerable people

The petition of the undersigned citizens of Tasmania draws to the attention of the House the matter of reinstating masking requirements in medical settings and services for vulnerable people.

In the context of Living with COVID, individuals are expected to make their own risk assessments and choices. Accessing medical care and services for vulnerable people is not a choice. Safe access to care should be the right of all Tasmanians. It is also important to protect the people who work in these places.

There is evidence that COVID is not simply a respiratory virus, and is associated with a number of health issues both during the acute infection phase, and post-infection. These include vascular, heart and immune dysfunction; long-COVID (including vaccinated people); higher risk of cognitive impacts and early dementia; and higher risk of juvenile diabetes in young children.

Infection with COVID does not preclude people from reinfection, nor does being fully vaccinated. COVID is airborne, and masking limits transmission - an individual wearing a mask is good, but many people wearing a mask is better.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to call on the Government to:

1. Reinstate masking requirements in all medical settings.
2. Reinstate masking requirements in services and facilities for vulnerable people, including, aged care homes; disability support services and childcare centres.
3. Create a Vaccines Plus education campaign, to demonstrate that COVID is airborne and the benefits of masking and clean air to reduce transmission.