Seasonal Respiratory Illnesses
Updated September 9, 2026
Current situation and guidance
- In August 2025, Ontario’s Ministry of Health released a Seasonal Respiratory Pathogen Guide
- In the fall and winter seasons, the risk from influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and other respiratory pathogens is increased.
- While the overall risk to of COVID-19 has been diminished through factors such as increased immunity and high vaccination rates, it remains a threat to the health and wellbeing of Ontarians and will contribute to the seasonal surge.
- RMTs/MTs cannot provide treatment to patients who should be self-isolating. If an RMT/MT or their patient have any symptoms of illness, they can complete the Ministry of Health’s online Self-Assessment Tool to determine if self-isolation is required.
Risk assessments continue to be an essential part of providing safe and effective Massage Therapy care.
When conducting a risk assessment, RMTs/MTs should consider:
- If the patient is experiencing any symptoms related to COVID-19 and/or Seasonal Respiratory Pathogens at the time of the appointment;
- If the patient is supposed to be self-isolating at the time of an appointment;
- If risks can be controlled through infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures and/or Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (e.g., masking); and,
- Whether deferring in-person treatment might result in negative consequences for the patient.
Guidance for RMTs
- RMTs/MTs must follow the requirements in Safety and Risk Management and Infection Prevention and Control, Standard of Practice: Safety and Risk Management and Infection Prevention and Control and Public Health Ontario’s IPAC guidance.
- RMTs/MTs and/or patients may want to continue masking. RMTs/MTs should use a patient-centered approach, mask if they wish, and/or mask at the patient’s request. The Ministry has provided guidance for the Prevention of Acute Respiratory Infection Transmission in All Health Care Settings.
