It’s a simple enough question, but the answer is remarkably complicated. Last month, the English Government advised the public to consider wearing face coverings in enclosed public spaces such as shops. This was based on advice from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), which said that such garments could provide protection in terms of reducing spread from those who have a coronavirus infection but are not showing symptoms, and could be beneficial in some places where social distancing measures were difficult to maintain. The evidence of effectiveness is limited, and the protection they afford to wearers is unknown.

From 15 June, the wearing of face coverings on public transport in England became mandatory, with exemptions for children, disabled people and those with breathing difficulties. Those who don’t comply can be stopped from travelling and potentially fined. The Government is working with the devolved nations on similar rulings.

Currently (8 June), the Government says masks do not need to be worn outdoors, while exercising, in schools, in workplaces such as offices or retail, or by those who may find them difficult to manage, for example, young children or individuals with breathing difficulties. Masks can be made at home using scarves or other textiles rather than using surgical or medical grade masks, as these should be prioritised for healthcare workers working in higher risk environments.

Gloves are not recommended outside healthcare settings, with the World Health Organization (WHO) stating that wearing gloves can actually increase risks, as it can lead to self-infection or transmission to others through touching contaminated surfaces and then not following that by removing or replacing gloves and adhering to hand hygiene measures.