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Author:
MIPO OW
from Oberwart
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Do masks protect against infection?
No. According to the government, the goal is not to protect the wearer from being infected with the coronavirus, but to avoid passing it on to other people. Mouth and nose protective masks prevent droplets of saliva from being spread over a large area when coughing, sneezing and also when speaking.
Are the masks free?
Yes. The masks should be made available by the trading company “free of charge” if the customer does not bring any mechanical protective devices with them.
When does the regulation apply?
From April 6, entry to the supermarket is only allowed if a mask is worn. The distribution of the masks in the supermarkets has already begun, and gradually all branches will follow.
Can I reuse a mask?
Yes – but only if certain conditions are met. In principle, you can take the mask home with you after shopping. It is safest to dispose of them immediately, but masks can quickly become scarce in many places. In any case, the mouthguard should either be washed well or at least dried well before reuse.
After a wearing time of about three to four hours or if the mask is wet, it should be replaced with a new, clean and dry protection. Used protection should not be left lying around.
Cloth masks can of course be washed in the washing machine (at 60 to 90 degrees), then dry well.
What else do I have to consider with the masks?
When putting on and taking off the masks, you have to be careful not to spread bacteria and viruses with your hands. You should also make sure that the face mask fits well and fits snugly. You shouldn’t tug at the mask too much while wearing it. Wash hands well after removing the mask from the face. In addition, everyone should use their own mask and not share it with others.
Does the mask requirement also apply to pharmacies?
No. Currently, the mask requirement is only intended for supermarkets and drug stores.
Will the mask requirement apply in all branches?
No. It only applies to branches with more than 400 square meters of retail space. According to the trade association, on average, classic supermarkets are above this limit – namely 500 to 800 square meters. A minimum distance of one meter must still be observed in all shops.
Can I shop without a mask?
The trade association said that consumers can basically get groceries and drugstores without a mask. If masks are distributed in shops, they must be worn, however. If a store does not yet have a mask, you can also buy there without a mask – while maintaining the minimum distance of one meter.
What is a mask? Can I also use scarves, scarves or homemade masks?
According to the Ministry of Health, the masks are a simple mouth and nose protection. The purpose of this is to cover the mouth and nose and to prevent the virus from spreading through the air. You can also make masks yourself. “Any type of mouth and nose covering is better than no covering,” said a ministry spokesman. A separate law is intended to regulate that “quick masks” may also be distributed without medical certification.
Can I only go shopping alone or can I take my children with me?
The requirement announced on Monday that supermarkets will in future only be accessible to individuals cannot be found in the Ministry of Health’s decree. Parents can continue to enter the shops with their children.
Do children have to wear masks too?
Yes. The wearing of masks also applies to children; according to the ministry, wearing masks is not necessary for babies.
Source: ORF
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