Make face coverings mandatory in public places like shops and workplaces

Covering nose and mouth, even just with an improvised cloth mask, can be helpful in preventing the spread of the virus, not so much for the wearer but for the people around them who don't have to share their breath so directly. The trouble at present is that the only people doing this are those who have reason to take this virus very seriously (who are most likely to be taking all the other precautions anyway and thus less likely to be infected), whilst those who are happy to mingle more freely (and thus more likely to carry the virus) are not going to wear masks unless it becomes compulsory. Therefore to be effective, this really needs to be made mandatory: no entry to supermarkets etc unless face is covered.

Why the contribution is important

It could stop a lot of transmission of this virus.

by Jammie on May 10, 2020 at 09:58PM

Current Rating

Average rating: 3.5
Based on: 28 votes

Comments

  • Posted by emwpaisley May 10, 2020 at 22:09

    Sorry but no Not for me

  • Posted by GJBB May 10, 2020 at 22:17

    Issue of mask unavailability and exploitation by profiteers preying on consumers charging inflated prices.

  • Posted by Rachel_T1502 May 10, 2020 at 22:21

    Point well made! I definitely agree. Perhaps a system to make masks freely available to those who would have difficulty buying or making them and public health campaign educating in the correct use of masks/adverts on TV as I've seen lots of people touching their faces readjusting the masks or trying to keep them from falling off!

  • Posted by Nm May 10, 2020 at 22:46

    Agree, face coverings are necessary on buses and trains too. It would be good if in time, a basic mask could be available for distribution at transport hubs.

  • Posted by jeankemp May 10, 2020 at 23:13

    I would be willing to wear a mask if the research showed if was helpful in reducing the transmission of the virus.

  • Posted by AlJones May 10, 2020 at 23:30

    Where is the evidence that those more likely not to take it seriously are more likely to have the virus. Recent reports from America are that patients have been surveyed as to ‘how’ they got the virus, and around 66% of them had been obeying lockdown.

    Also, many of us couldn’t get a hold of masks even if we tried. Should we starve?

  • Posted by A123 May 10, 2020 at 23:33

    What about those with breathing, respiratory difficulties?

  • Posted by dodo1956 May 10, 2020 at 23:42

    It does not make sense to recommend wearing face coverings but not make it compulsory! It is only effective if most people comply. So the people who care about reducing the spread are effectively protecting others by wearing face coverings, but it does not protect themselves. Hardly anyone in my area is wearing face coverings. I am definately a minority. Although people do give me a wide berth because I wear one!!

  • Posted by Janus May 11, 2020 at 04:02

    I remember the public response to Boris Johnson's comments about people who wear burqas... Are we seriously suddenly endorsing the wearing of face coverings in public?

  • Posted by monobloc May 11, 2020 at 07:37

    I totally agree

  • Posted by Djalaodbdld May 11, 2020 at 07:40

    Masks give a false sense of security and no real benefit.

  • Posted by JuliaM May 11, 2020 at 07:47

    Current WHO advice is that this is not necessary unless showing symptoms or caring for those with covid19 & can encourage a false sense of security wearing a mask.

    This will divert PPE from those that need it for work/caring where there are already supply issues.

    There is a evidence that home-made masks are worse that wearing nothing if not laundered every day.

  • Posted by Marydoll10 May 11, 2020 at 08:07

    Easy to understand and follow and enforce
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