Mask wearing to continue in healthcare

Following calls from the College and other healthcare organisations NHS England has reminded the public that face masks will continue to be required in healthcare settings.

The legal requirement to wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces ended on Monday 19 July. Prior to this, a letter signed by the College alongside the British Medical Association and British Dental Association, among others, called on the Prime Minister to make face masks mandatory in healthcare settings.

NHS England then released a statement that explained its infection prevention control guidelines and hospital visiting guidance are set to remain in place for all staff and visitors to all healthcare settings, including optometric practices.