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By Michelle Roberts
Health editor, BBC News online
Image source, Getty Images
Mask-wearing in England is becoming a legal requirement again in some settings in response to the Omicron variant of coronavirus.
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own guidelines, with face coverings already mandatory on public transport and many indoor areas.
What are the new rules on masks in England?
People will have to wear face coverings in shops and on public transport in England from Tuesday, the government has said.
Secondary school pupils are also being "strongly advised" to wear masks in communal areas, as are staff and visitors at all schools and childcare settings.
Image source, Getty Images
Under the government's Covid "Autumn and Winter Plan", their use was already recommended in crowded and enclosed spaces.
What are the current rules about masks across the UK?
Image source, Getty Images
Why use a face covering?
Face coverings worn over the nose and mouth reduce the spread of coronavirus droplets from coughs, sneezes and while speaking.
The main purpose is to protect others although there is some evidence they offer protection to wearers,.
Masks can also help reduce virus spread from contagious people with no symptoms.
What sort of face covering is best?
- have a nose wire
- have at least two/three layers of material
- fit snugly over mouth, nose and chin
The highest level of protection is provided by FFP3 (or similar) masks worn by healthcare workers in high risk settings. A recent study found FFP3 masks could provid up to 100% protection against Covid.
Hospital staff wearing standard surgical masks were much more likely to catch the virus.
Members of the public can buy FFP3 masks, but they won't provide the highest protection unless fitted correctly.
English (US)