Public advised to cover faces in enclosed spaces

From this week, the public has been advised to consider wearing face coverings in enclosed public spaces such as shops, trains and buses to help reduce the spread of coronavirus.

• People who use public transport or visit shops should consider covering their mouth and nose based on advice from SAGE
• Face coverings are not a replacement for social distancing and regular handwashing which remain the most important actions, says Chief Medical Officer
• Public urged not to buy medical grade masks so they can be saved for frontline health and care workers, and instead make their own face coverings at home

Face coverings can help us protect each other and reduce the spread of the disease if you are suffering from coronavirus but not showing symptoms. People with coronavirus symptoms, as well as members of their household, should continue to follow the advice to self-isolate.

The public is being strongly urged not to purchase surgical masks or respirators. These are prioritised for healthcare workers working in more high-risk environments where the risk is greatest.

To read the full press release, please click here.