A poll conducted with a small number of people with diabetes on the Diabetes Forum has shown that 4 in 10 people are actively wearing a mask when going out.
The results come as people in England are now being advised to wear face coverings in enclosed spaces to protect against the spread and risk of infection of COVID-19. People in Scotland are already recommended to wear masks when in shops and in public transport.
People in England are advised to wear a mask when:
- On public transport and in some shops
- In other “enclosed spaces where social distancing is not always possible” and “they come into contact with others that they do not normally meet”
People are not required to not wear a mask when:
- Exercising
- Outdoors
- At school
- In workplaces such as offices and shops
Children under the age of 2 and primary-school aged children who cannot use masks without assistance are also not required to wear a mask.
Of the 170 people surveyed, 44% confirmed wearing a mask when going out, with a further 16% considering whether to wear a mask when going out. Advice states face coverings should be worn rather than surgical masks or respirators which should be left for healthcare staff and people who need them.
Just under 4 in 10 people (39%) reported not wearing a mask when going out.
