In an attempt to slow down coronavirus spread, many countries have made wearing face masks mandatory in public spaces. In adopting NPHET advice, however, the Government will support mask-wearing in a non-compulsory way, though the scientific argument in favour of their widespread use has strengthened appreciably. If correctly used on this basis, face masks, including homemade cloth masks, could contribute to reducing viral transmission. The Irish public could have been alerted sooner to the merits of basic masks, especially as lockdown is being eased and people are in greater circulation. Getting used to wearing them properly will also take time, and will need effective public health messaging.

Source: The Irish Times May 13, 2020 20:37 UTC