OMICRON: What are England’s Mask Rules Now?
Secondary school pupils are being “strongly advised” to wear masks in communal areas, as are staff and visitors at all schools and childcare settings.
The new rules also apply to staff and customers in:
- Hairdressers, tattoo studios and nail bars
- Post offices and banks
- Estate agents
- Vet surgeries
- Takeaways
- Pharmacies
- Auction houses
- Taxis
- Driving lessons and tests
Are there exemptions to the mask rules?
Under-12s are exempt, as are those who can’t wear face coverings for medical reasons.
Do I have to wear a mask in pubs, restaurants or gyms?
The rules don’t apply to other indoor venues such as gyms, theatres or cinemas, although the previous guidance recommended wearing masks in all crowded settings.
Why use a face covering?
Evidence suggests transmission mainly happens indoors where people are close together.
Covering the nose and mouth reduces the spread of coronavirus droplets from coughs, sneezes and while speaking.
The main purpose is to protect others although there is some evidence they offer protection to wearers.
Masks can also help reduce virus spread from contagious people with no symptoms.
- Five ways to avoid catching coronavirus indoors
What sort of face covering is best?
It should:
- have a nose wire
- have at least two or three layers of material
- fit snugly over mouth, nose and chin
More information here.
