This archive report was first published on 7 June 2020.
On June 7, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated its guidance on face masks in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The WHO now advises governments to encourage the general public to wear masks in areas with widespread transmission and where physical distancing is difficult.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that masks should be worn in situations where physical distancing is not possible, particularly for individuals aged 60 years or over, or those with underlying health conditions.
However, the WHO stressed that facemasks alone are not sufficient to protect individuals from COVID-19 and that people with symptoms should stay at home and avoid public gatherings.
Healthcare workers are still advised to wear medical masks and protective equipment when dealing with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients.
Additionally, the WHO now recommends that all healthcare workers in clinical sections of a health facility wear medical masks in areas with widespread virus transmission.
The organization also provided guidance on the composition of non-medical fabric masks, recommending a minimum of three layers: a water-absorbent inner layer, a filter middle layer, and a water-resistant outer layer.
WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan noted that wearing a fabric mask is primarily about preventing the wearer from infecting others, rather than self-protection.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that masks are only one part of an effective strategy to suppress the virus and should not create a false sense of security.
