When and where you should be wearing a face mask or covering as North East's Public Health England team issues reminder on shopping safely

Public Health England’s North East Centre used its social media channels to remind people that wearing face coverings in enclosed spaces – such as shops – may help slow the spread of the virus.

The message, originally posted by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), said: “Wearing face coverings in enclosed spaces such as shops can help stop the spread of coronavirus.

“Wash your hands or use hand sanitiser before putting on your face covering and after taking it off.”

We have taken a look at the latest Government guidance, ahead of Covid-19 lockdown restrictions being further eased from Saturday, July 4.

What is a face covering?

A face covering is a piece of cloth, which should be used to cover your nose and mouth while still allowing you to breath comfortably.

This does not have to be a mask and could instead be a scarf or bandana.

When is it advised to wear one?

Advice says to wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces, where social distancing from others isn’t possible.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also advised that face coverings may be necessary as a mitigating factor where social distancing cannot be at two metres.

From Saturday, the country’s social distance requirement will be ‘one metre plus’ where two metres is not possible.

There is separate guidance about when and where it is mandatory to have a face covering.

When is it mandatory to wear one?

The Government made it mandatory to wear a face covering at all times on public transport, or when attending hospital as a visitor or for an outpatient appointment.

How do I wear one safely?

Wash your hands, or use hand sanitiser, before putting your covering on and after taking it off. Make sure it covers your nose and mouth.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and don’t touch the front of the covering, or the piece of fabric which has touched your nose and mouth.

Wash coverings regularly, and store used ones in a plastic bag if you cannot wash them straight away.

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