Orillia’s hospital is seeking community donations of personal protective equipment to meet the growing need for these vital supplies.

The hospital needs N95 masks, surgical procedure masks and isolation gowns.

Items must be sealed in their original packaging.

“Medical offices, manufacturing companies, public institutions and various private citizens have all donated personal protective equipment thus far,” said Tom Roberts, vice-president corporate services and chief financial officer.

Responding to questions on April 2, Roberts said the hospital had between five and seven days of protective equipment inventory.

“While inventory levels are lower than normal, we are working diligently to source additional supply,” he added.

The hospital’s existing supply would support “our initial response to a sudden surge, and we would then follow the Ministry of Health process for securing additional supplies,” Roberts said.

He noted that, as the pandemic evolves, usage guidelines for protective equipment are changing.

“Most recently, public health officials have advised that masks be worn during any patient interaction,” Roberts said.

The hospital is now providing all staff with a mask upon arrival at work.