Face coverings have become mandatory in more indoor settings in England and Scotland following a recent spike in coronavirus cases. Places where coverings must now be worn in both countries include museums, places of worship and aquariums. Other new settings in England include cinemas and funeral homes, and in Scotland banks and beauty salons. Coverings… Read More »
Certain methods of decontaminating medical face masks for repeated use during the COVID-19 pandemic appear to damage the masks’ integrity and protective function, according to research by a University of Massachusetts Amherst environmental health scientist. “Some treatments for decontamination had no impact on respirator performance, while other treatments resulted in substantial damage to masks,” writes… Read More »
NHS trusts were not consulted before the government announced changes to the use of face coverings and visitor policy in English hospitals, the chief executive of NHS Providers has said. Chris Hopson said trust leaders felt “completely in the dark” about the “significant and complex” changes. From 15 June, hospital visitors and outpatients must wear… Read More »
Face masks are now required in many public places to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. For people with hearing loss, though, this may be easier said than done. That’s because face masks add extra challenges for people with hearing impairments: It’s harder to understand people when they’re speaking to you with a mask on their… Read More »