What I don't understand is.....we've been walking around for the last 4 months without masks (most of us) so why have to start wearing them now? Surely we should have done this from the start of lockdown?
Diane,
1. We are now allowed to do more that will bring us into closer contact with more strangers.
2. The evidence has become clearer over the months. its still not strong evidence, more along the lines of couldn't hurt.
3. Many people have warn masks in shops all along.
4. as the WHO says, its partly a social thing...makes people feel that they are doing all they can to help.
Agreed Woofy. And if it makes people feel more comfortable then that is a very good thing. We all know that non medical masks and face coverings only providea certain amount of protection, but some is better than none.
there will be other mitigating measures such as distancing. Contact info will be collected for hotspot management....also its not essential to go to pubs and restaurants. people can select their level of risk.
No matter how many threads we have on this and oh boy there have been plenty,the upshot is - cover up or don't and handle the consequences as they arise.
Re the exemptions for those with disabilities, use them if you really cannot cope with a face covering.
At the beginning of the pandemic I wrapped a scarf round my face when I took groceries to my dad. It felt quite claustrophobic. I’m not really looking forward to wearing a mask while doing my shopping, but needs must. Should have been done months ago. Shambolic “leadership”.