BRITS have been told to wear face masks on public and in shops to help stop coronavirus spreading.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps yesterday announced that from June 15 it will be mandatory for people to wear face coverings on public transport.
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Scientific evidence shows face coverings can stop you passing coronavirus on to others if you are asymptomatic or have yet to develop symptoms.
But what type should you buy, can you make your own and where can you buy them? We explain.
What type of face mask should you buy?
Top advisers in SAGE recommend a face covering that you can make yourself, or use something like a bandana or thick scarf for when you’re out and about, saving you money so the NHS can get the top grade PPE.
Please do not buy an N95 of FFP3 mask as they are most needed by NHS heroes and carers, or those looking after people with coronavirus, and can only be worn once.
But, non-N95 and FFP3 masks can be reused and should not just be thrown away – so are the better option.
You could try buying a fabric face mask, DIY face mask (FFP1) or cycling mask from the shops, or even making your own.
If you buy or make your own cloth mask they can be reused if you wash it thoroughly at over 60C.
Also read our information on the types of masks you can rewash.
Where can you buy face masks online in the UK?
High demand means a lot of retailers have already sold out, but there are some shops with stock.
Just make sure to check delivery times beforehand as your order may be delayed due to the coronavirus.
Fabric face coverings
DIY face mask
- Buy from Wilko – £3 for a three pack
- Buy from Poundland – £1 for two pack
- Buy from Wickes – from £1.25
Cycling masks
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How to make a homemade mask
IF you’re unable to find a mask, you could make your own at home.
Homemade masks won’t offer the same level of protection as medical-grade ones, but it hasn’t stopped DIY tutorials popping up online.
One of the simplest ones involves using two layers of kitchen roll and one tissue cut in half.
You then cover each end with masking tape – and you can even tape down some wire to stiffen the mask, if you have any.
Finish by punching holes in each end and threading elastic through to fit around your ears.
If you don’t have elastic bands you could also use a hair tie.
If you do wear a mask you still need to follow the advice of often washing your hands and keeping a two metre distance apart from people.
If you believe you have symptoms, sit tight at home and get someone else to go out for you if you can.
