“We’re seeing many people wearing them but with their nose exposed.”
The public have been reminded of the importance of wearing face coverings correctly.
Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Ronan Glynn said he was delighted to see the huge uptake in people wearing face coverings in Ireland but cautioned that wearing them incorrectly provides no protection and in fact, can increase the risk of the virus.
Face coverings are mandatory in Ireland on public transport and in shops and other retail settings.
Speaking at the Department of Health briefing on Monday evening, Dr Glynn said he was taking the opportunity to remind people of the importance of wearing them as instructed.
“The topic doesn’t always come up at these conferences but can I just take the opportunity to remind people that if you are wearing [face coverings], to wear them properly,” Dr Glynn said.
“We’re seeing far too many people walking around with them under their chin. We’re seeing many people wearing them but with their nose exposed.
“Neither of those things provide any protection and indeed may increase the risk.
“We’re delighted to see that so many people – 90% I think – of people are wearing face coverings where appropriate and that’s just one more example of how people have been willing to adhere to the guidance but perhaps just look at the videos online and look at the videos on HSE.ie in relation to the appropriate use of the coverings,” he said.
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