07 July 2020
The UK government and the World Health Organisation (WHO) are constantly reviewing and updating their guidance concerning face coverings and face masks.
Since the start of June, there have been multiple updates, including the announcement that face coverings would become mandatory on public transport in England from the 15th June. It has since been announced that from the 10th July face coverings will become compulsory in shops in Scotland and on public transport in Northern Ireland.
In this article, we take a look at the latest guidance* and how it will affect different groups of people, such as those over 60, healthcare workers and the general public, so you can stay safe and well when out in public.
People over 60, and anyone living with an underlying health condition, are now advised by WHO to wear medical masks in areas of widespread transmission and circumstances where social distancing is not possible, where you may be closer than one metre in distance to other people.
The general public throughout the UK are still advised by the government to wear face coverings in enclosed public spaces or areas where social distancing cannot be maintained. It is already compulsory to wear a face covering on public transport in England, but on the 10th July, it will also be made mandatory in Scotland and Northern Ireland. You will also be required to wear a face covering when visiting shops in Scotland from this date. The main purpose of a face covering is to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by people who are infected but do not have any symptoms and therefore do not yet know they are infected.
Anyone who is visiting a hospital from the 15th June is advised to wear a face covering by the government to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 within a hospital setting. In many cases, hospitals do have some face masks available for emergencies, if a visitor is unable to bring a face covering with them. As well as visitors, all hospital staff will now be required to wear surgical masks.
People across the UK can help to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by continuing the hygiene measures advised by the government and keeping a social distance of two metres wherever possible. Washing your hands regularly at home and using alcohol based hand sanitiser when in public can help to protect you and others against the COVID-19 virus. Other equipment, such as gloves, face coverings and masks can help to reduce the spread of virus but will only be effective when used with hand hygiene and social distancing measures and if you avoid touching your face.
As it is likely we will see more guidelines put in place in the coming weeks, it is important to keep up to date with any new advice from the World Health Organisation and UK government.
To view more of the hygiene and personal care equipment available at Complete Care Shop, please visit our website.
*All information correct at date of publishing.
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