VIA Rail to require anyone not wearing mask provide medical certificate

By CityNews Staff

VIA Rail Canada is changing its mask mandate.

As of November 9, the rail service says it will ask that anyone with a medical condition or disability that makes it difficult to wear a mask provide an official medical certificate along with a government-issued photo ID.

VIA Rail explains that the medical certificate must clearly state the person's name and must specify that they have a current medical condition (unrelated to COVID-19 or any other infectious illness) or a disability that prevents them from wearing a mask correctly.

Lastly, they ask that the certificate be dated and issued by a healthcare provider on official letterhead with provider's full name, licence number, and phone number.

“Single-layer masks, scarves or bandanas, masks with exhalation valves and plastic masks will not be accepted, as they do not provide the level of protection required to limit the spread of the virus,” VIA Rail says.

“Face shields may only be used in addition to a mask.”

VIA Rail Canada says failure to comply with the aforementioned requirements will be considered misconduct that may result in sanctions and or denial of boarding.

In June, the rail service made it mandatory for every passenger to wear masks with an exception given to children under the age of two, passengers with medical conditions resulting in trouble breathing, and those who can't remove their masks without assistance.

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