Gert van der Hoek
In Memoriam - Editor, Senior Moderator
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is set to review its advice on when to wear face masks during the coronavirus pandemic in light of new evidence.
Under current guidance, only people with coronavirus symptoms or looking after someone with suspected Covid-19 have been told to wear masks to cover their mouth and nose.
However, a group of experts will discuss whether this should change following a new study from Hong Kong, whose findings appear to show face masks can help protect members of the public.
Professor David Heymann from London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine said: “As always when new evidence becomes available, WHO will be considering its face mask policies as a routine activity this week and next.”
He said advisory groups – including the one he chairs – will offer recommendations, and the final decision will likely take into account the global availability of face masks under the current guidelines.
Under current guidance, only people with coronavirus symptoms or looking after someone with suspected Covid-19 have been told to wear masks to cover their mouth and nose.
However, a group of experts will discuss whether this should change following a new study from Hong Kong, whose findings appear to show face masks can help protect members of the public.
Professor David Heymann from London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine said: “As always when new evidence becomes available, WHO will be considering its face mask policies as a routine activity this week and next.”
He said advisory groups – including the one he chairs – will offer recommendations, and the final decision will likely take into account the global availability of face masks under the current guidelines.