Department of Health urges public to continue protecting themselves against Covid-19

The Department of Health has reiterated the importance of the public adhering to advice around handwashing and social distancing as the battle to curb the spread of Covid-19 continues

With the first steps being introduced to ease some of the restrictions that have been in place here since March it remains vitally important that none of us become complacent.

The guidance in place is clear and that is – that good hand hygiene and social distancing are crucial elements in preventing the spread of the virus and helps to save lives.

These are simple steps but no one should doubt for a moment the impact that they have. 

The Executive recently announced that people consider wearing a face covering in places where there are difficulties social distancing, such as on public transport or in retail environments. This advice was recommended by the Northern Ireland COVID-19 Strategic Intelligence Group.

It is important to note that the wearing of face coverings is primarily to prevent the wearer inadvertently infecting other people, however there may be some weaker evidence of benefits for the wearer.

Notes to editors: 

1. Face coverings should cover your mouth and nose while allowing you to breathe comfortably. It can be as simple as a scarf or bandana that ties behind the head.

• Coverings could include homemade masks.  Guidance on how to make homemade masks can be found at:-  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-wear-and-make-a-cloth-face-covering/how-to-wear-and-make-a-cloth-face-covering
• It should be stressed however that any face covering could itself be a potential source of infection.

2. For media enquiries please contact DoH Press Office by  email: pressoffice@health-ni.gov.uk. Out of hours please contact the Duty Press Officer on 028 9037 8110.

3. Follow us on twitter @healthdpt

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