Public advised to cover faces in enclosed spaces

The government is advising the public to consider wearing face coverings in enclosed public spaces such as shops, trains and buses to help reduce the spread of coronavirus.

The government has told the public that face coverings can help reduce the risk of transmission in some circumstances, and may be beneficial in places where it is hard to follow maintain social distancing measures. This applies when using public transport, such as trains, buses and metro systems, or when visiting shops.

However, they do not need to be worn outdoors, while exercising, in schools, in workplaces such as offices and retail, by those who may find them difficult to wear, such as children under two or primary aged children who cannot use them without assistance, or those who may have problems breathing while wearing a face covering.

The government will not be supplying face coverings centrally as at home items and fabrics readily available on the market can be used, but it is important to wash them after every use. Face masks will be reserved for health care staff.

Health Minister Jo Churchill said: “At all times our strategy for keeping the public and the NHS safe during this crisis has been guided by the science. Today, thanks to the evidence provided by our expert scientists, we are advising people to consider wearing a face covering if they can in enclosed public spaces where social distancing is impossible, for example on public transport or in shops. This may help prevent you spreading the virus to others. You do not need a clinical mask which is prioritised for our healthcare workers. Instead a face covering is sufficient and we encourage people to make these at home with items they will already own.”