Face coverings to be encouraged where social distancing is not possible

People in Wales will now be encouraged to wear face coverings in public where social distancing is not possible.

Welsh health minister Vaughan Gething made the recommendation at the Welsh Government’s daily press briefing on Tuesday, June 9.

The advice follows a change in guidance from the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The Welsh Government recommends people wear ‘three-layer’ face coverings when in places where observing the two-meter social distancing guidance is difficult.

What is a three-layer face covering?

A three-layer face covering is defined by the WHO as a covering where three layers are present that consist of absorbent cotton closest to the face, a polypropylene layer and a synthetic layer that is fluid-resistant.

This differs to simply wearing a scarf over your mouth and nose, or standard single layer disposable masks.

Single layer masks are designed to limit the amount of fluid discharged by the wearer to protect those around them and not to protect the wearer themselves.

Where can I get a three-layer face covering?

While some retailers have increased their stock of face coverings, many do not meet the WHO’s definition of a three-layer mask.

The WHO guidance says that people should be able to make their own masks at home, however neither the WHO nor Welsh Government have issued guidance on where they can be bought.

On Friday, June 5, the WHO also advised that simple coverings offer no protection to the public and that over-60s should wear medical-grade masks.

Where should I wear a face covering?

Public Health Wales have advised that face coverings should be worn in places where social distancing is difficult, specifically on public transport and in busy shops.

Mr Gething also warned that the recommendation was “only” for people who are not showing symptoms of coronavirus and that those who are should continue to self-isolate for seven days and get a test.