Eight key questions answered as use of face coverings on public transport to become compulsory

Here are eight key questions about the use of coverings and masks answered.

- What has the Government said?

People must wear face coverings when using public transport in England.

- Why is it recommending face coverings?

The Government states that, while wearing a face covering does not protect the wearer, it may protect others if people are infected but have not yet developed symptoms.

- Where else should they be worn?

Current advice is for face coverings to be worn in enclosed spaces, which also includes some shops.

People are not being told to wear them outdoors, while exercising, in schools or offices.

- What about masks?

Several airlines such as easyJet and Ryanair have introduced a requirement for passengers to wear face masks.

But the Government believes these should be reserved for those who need them to protect against risks in their workplace, such as health and care workers.

- If I develop Covid-19 symptoms, can I still go out if I wear a mask or covering?

No. People with coronavirus symptoms and their household should isolate at home.

- What sort of face coverings should I use?

Scarves, cotton home-made coverings that cover nose and mouth and other bought masks that are not ones used by the health service are fine.

Officials said that people can make coverings at home, but added that "the key thing is it should cover your mouth and nose".

- What is the science?

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) thinks the evidence of masks preventing the spread of infection from one person to another is "marginal but positive".

The World Health Organisation has stressed that there is no evidence that wearing a mask - whether medical or other types - by healthy persons in the wider community can prevent them from infection with respiratory viruses, including Covid-19.

- Are there any downsides to using face coverings?

Concerns have been raised that they could give a false sense of security and mean that people are less stringent with other preventative measures such as social distancing and hand hygiene.

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