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Face coverings advised in shops & public transport |
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The Scottish Government is recommending members of the public wear face coverings in certain situations where social distancing is difficult but has warned they are “not a substitute” for social distancing.
New guidance says face coverings should be worn in crowded places like shops and public transport as an “extra precaution”.
Nicola Sturgeon repeatedly emphasised that the measures are not a replacement for social distancing.
Speaking at today’s covid-19 press briefing, the First Minister said some people, perhaps those with asthma, would have very good reasons not to wear them face coverings but that others should use a cloth face covering.
However this is only a recommendation and will not be enforced.
"This is an extra precaution,” Ms Sturgeon said, “That you can, and we are suggesting, you should take.
“But it is not, and must not be seen as, a substitute for the other rules and guidelines we have been stressing and asking you to comply with.”
The new guidance emphasises current rules on social distancing remain the most important, including that people should still only leave the house for the very limited purposes such as getting food and medicine.
The government document states the evidence on the use of face coverings is limited but says there may be “some benefit” in places “where there is a risk of close contact with multiple people you do not usually meet.”
It adds: ‘By face coverings we do not mean the wearing of a surgical or other medical grade mask but a facial covering of the mouth and nose, that is made of cloth or other textiles and through which you can breathe, for example a scarf.
‘Given that the evidence of impact on transmission is relatively weak, the public use of facial coverings is not being made mandatory and will not be enforced at this stage.
‘However, we will keep this guidance under ongoing review as we consider any easing of lockdown restrictions in the weeks ahead.’
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