Holidaymakers and residents of France are being asked to wear masks once again in some public settings as they enter a new wave of Covid-19.
The advisory was announced by the country’s health minister, Brigitte Bourguignon, after 17,601 new infections were recorded over a 24 hour period on Monday.
This marks the highest figure since April 18, according to health officials, prompting quick action as the summer season gets underway.
Speaking to local news station RTL, Ms. Bourguignon said: "I'm not saying it should be mandatory but I do ask the French people to put the mask on in public transport.”
However, she then added: "I'm not merely advising it, I'm asking for it.”
Meanwhile, here in Ireland as cases reached around 23,000 last week, the advisory to continue wearing masks on public transport and in healthcare settings remains in place - however, the actual rule was dropped back in February.
Government officials have continued to insist there are no new restrictions currently under consideration, and that the approach to the current summer wave will be down to personal action.
This includes:
- isolating if you are symptomatic (even if you are fully vaccinated and boosted) or if you are diagnosed with COVID-19
- completing your primary and booster programme of vaccination
- continuing to manage risk for yourself and others who are more vulnerable. You can do this by wearing masks, physical distancing and avoiding crowds as well as maintaining basic hand and respiratory hygiene
Health officials have also insisted that if you are due any of your vaccinations, either primary series or boosters, you should book in now.
You can schedule your appointment up to five days in advance on the HSE website.
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