Why it is crucial Ministers get it right over face covering advice - letter

It is crucial the government sets out a consistent rule in relation to the public wearing face protection to limit the spread of Covid-19, according to this Yorkshire health leader.
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As we move into a phase where we must learn to adapt to living with the virus, it is time to accept simple, practical tools to limit the spread of the virus are of paramount importance.

The evidence shows a face covering can reduce larger respiratory droplets emitted in coughing, sneezing, and talking, which we know is a key mode of transmission.

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That is why the British Medical Association has been calling on the government to implement face covering policies since April and we have welcomed recent developments that residents in Yorkshire will be required to wear a face mask on public transport, or when going into hospital in any capacity.

It is crucial the government sets out a consistent rule in relation to the public wearing face protection to limit the spread of Covid-19, according to a Yorkshire health leader.(Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images,)It is crucial the government sets out a consistent rule in relation to the public wearing face protection to limit the spread of Covid-19, according to a Yorkshire health leader.(Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images,)
It is crucial the government sets out a consistent rule in relation to the public wearing face protection to limit the spread of Covid-19, according to a Yorkshire health leader.(Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images,)

Foremost, it is vital that the Government extends this policy to cover GP surgeries and other health, community and social care settings across the region.

By implementing a consistent rule, we can avoid any confusion amongst the general public and reduce the spread of the virus in high risk environments.

Only with clear public information will this be instrumental in controlling the virus.

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The government must be clear with the public on the type of coverings that are necessary and how to access them.

With the UK death toll now more than 40,000, it is crucial the government gets this right, as protecting the health of people in Yorkshire is paramount.

Dr Brian McGregor

British Medical Association Yorkshire Regional Council chairman