Mask-wearing policy needs updating in face of more bugs

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Mask-wearing policy needs updating in face of more bugs

Patrice Dougan

Patrice Dougan

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Wearing masks, especially in winter, will help reduce the burden of respiratory disease, says Michael Baker [Image: iStock.com – CSA Images]

Experts are calling for an urgent upgrade to New Zealand’s mask policies to protect vulnerable people, Patrice Dougan reports

KEY POINTS, Masks work: if worn correctly and consistently, masks effectively reduce transmission of respiratory diseases. Mask quality matters: any mask is bet, BACK panel - grey
References

Greenhalgh T, Baker M, Kvalsvig A et al. Masks and respirators for prevention of respiratory infections: a state of the science review, Clinical Microbiology Reviews. DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00124-23