Covid, infections on the rise: where and when will masks return?

Covid infection figures are increasing in many countries: on the one hand the new variants, in Italy in particular Eris although for now without repercussions on hospitals, on the other lifestyle habits that have returned to before the pandemic with gatherings and without masks. The latter is a custom destined to return. In the USA the masks have already arrived in some hospitals and schools and also in Italy, according to what Il Messaggero reports, the Ministry of Health is preparing a circular with new rules for limiting infections in some areas, such as hospitals.

Some countries have already resumed the use of masks, mainly in hospitals and doctors’ offices, the last place from which they disappeared in Italy. They would go to a meeting and this would be the first they could return to because this is how people who have other pathologies are protected.

The same circular from the ministry would also regulate the execution of swabs upon arrival at the hospital and in the emergency room. It would also serve to screen for Covid and other respiratory diseases. A new safety indication could also be inserted in residences for the elderly. Currently in Italy there is no obligation to isolate if you are positive for Covid. It is recommended to wear a respiratory protective device, therefore a mask if you come into contact with other people. The invitation, if you are symptomatic, is to stay at home as for forms of flu.

In Lombardy a circular is already active that requires the use of masks in hospitals and RSAs for operators and visitors. The mask should preferably be Ffp2. A swab is also required in the emergency room for people with respiratory problems and for those who have no symptoms but must be hospitalized in departments where immunosuppressed patients or in obstetrics are located.