The use of medical face masks can help to limit the spread of coronavirus as reduces the release of droplets from individuals who do not show symptoms (asymptomatic or presymptomatic individuals) or show only mild symptoms according to updated recommendations of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
In particular, the updated ECDC recommendations for outdoor mask use[/B] state that the use of a face mask in busy outdoor areas should be considered when the public health policy objective is to limit transmission in the community but physical distances cannot be maintained.
For public indoor areas it is noted that in areas where the aim is to reduce the ongoing spread of coronavirus, the use of masks is recommended in places such as shops, supermarkets, transport hubs (such as ports, airports, train and coach stations) and public transport.
With regard to private places/residences, mask use should be considered for people who are symptomatic or are confirmed cases and for people living in the same dwelling, particularly when isolation is not feasible, and in care settings the use of face masks is recommended to protect vulnerable people, such as the elderly and people with underlying medical conditions; masks are recommended not only for vulnerable people, but also for those who come into frequent contact with them.
As noted, mask use can provide an alternative to absence from work or reduce pressures on public health systems from increased outbreaks, thereby also reducing the social impact of the pandemic. At the same time, mask use may also help to protect vulnerable people in specific settings.
According to the latest findings of a review of relevant scientific studies by the ECDC, there is evidence pointing to low to moderate certainty that the use of medical face masks may provide low to moderate protection against the spread of coronavirus in the community, both in terms of personal protection and in relation to the protection of others.
Source: CNA
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