No Need to Wear a Mask... Except When Within Kissing Distance

原创 Tom Arnstein theBeijinger

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Just as the reaction to the coronavirus reaches new levels of bedlam in the West, there are signs that the shackles of life under quarantine are slowly coming off in China. Case in point: we may soon all be able to breathe mask-free.

The China National Health Commission released a statement yesterday updating guidelines as to when it is appropriate to wear a mask in public. Before reminding readers that wearing a mask can help prevent respiratory infections, the new guidelines recommend that masks no longer need to be worn in well-ventilated outdoor spaces with few people and while at home.

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You should continue to wear the equivalent of a disposable mask or up in areas deemed to be of medium- to low-risk such as at work, taking an elevator, when out shopping or eating at a restaurant, or on public transportation. The same goes for if you're within a one-meter distance of someone; you don't want to risk wayward spittle ruining your day.

Meanwhile, in high-risk areas like crowded hospitals, railway or subway stations, airports, supermarkets, and restaurants, you're recommended to wear a medical or single-use mask (while workers should wear protective masks that comply with N95 standards or above). The same goes for those who are exhibiting symptoms like coughing or sneezing.

Despite the new guidelines, we recommend that you continue to carry a mask with you at all times when outside. It will take a while for news of the new recommendation to reach everyone, and you don't want to bring down the wrath of your neighborhood uncles and aunties on your head in the meantime. A good rule of thumb is that if someone's close enough to kiss or harass you, it's probably best to cover up.