Community transmission of COVID-19 is an ongoing cause for concern in NSW. While lockdown restrictions are easing for the North Coast, mask wearing will remain mandatory for all indoor public venues, including:
- public transport
- front-of-house hospitality
- retail and business premises
- on planes and at airports.
Only hospitality staff will be required to wear a mask when outdoors.
Children aged under 12 will not need to wear a mask indoors.
What type of mask should you be wearing?
Single-use masks (surgical masks) and reusable cloth masks can help to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Surgical masks – the blue or green type you typically see on doctors – are single use and cannot be washed. You can buy single-use masks from reputable retail outlets, including chemists and hardware stores.
Cloth masks should be:
- Ideally made from three layers of breathable fabric to ensure adequate protection.
- Washed after each use, or at least daily.
For instructions on making your own cloth face mask, click here. This link also includes advice on how to wear and wash masks.
How to wear a mask correctly
Via NSW Health
Your mask must cover your nose and mouth – wearing it improperly will not be effective.
Your mask should fit securely around your face (that is snugly under your chin, over the bridge of your nose and against the sides of your face).
Put on your mask safely
- Before putting on your mask, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Or use hand sanitiser that is made up of over 60% alcohol.
- Ensure you are using a new surgical mask or clean cloth mask. Do not reuse surgical masks. Always use a clean and dry cloth mask.
- Check the mask for defects, such as tears or broken loops.
- If you are wearing a surgical mask, position the coloured side of the mask outward.
- If the mask has:
- Ear loops: Hold the mask by both ear loops and place one loop over each ear.
- Ties: Hold the mask by the upper strings. Tie the upper strings in a secure bow near the crown of your head. Tie the bottom strings securely in a bow near the nape of your neck.
- Dual elastic bands: Pull the bottom band over your head and position it against the nape of your neck. Pull the top band over your head and position it against the crown of your head.
- A metallic strip or wire: Mould the bendable metallic upper strip to the shape of your nose by pinching and pressing down on it with your fingers.
- Pull the bottom of the mask over your mouth and chin. Be sure your mask fits snugly.
Please remember that a mask is not a substitute for physical distancing.
Masks are a ‘fourth line of defence’ after:
- Getting tested if unwell, then staying home.
- Maintaining 1.5-metre physical distancing.
- Practising good hand hygiene.
If you have symptoms, you should get tested for COVID-19 immediately, then self-isolate. Symptoms include fever, cough, headache, runny nose and shortness of breath.
To find your nearest testing clinic, visit NSW Health.
