For the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began, mask wearing has been made compulsory for millions of residents in the Greater Brisbane region.
The mandate has been imposed to stop a potentially “catastrophic” outbreak arising from a hotel quarantine cleaner being in the community for five days while infectious with the highly contagious mutant UK variant.
University of Queensland virologist Kirsty Short said masks were an effective preventative measure, particularly given the rates of asymptomatic transmission.
So what is the correct way to wear a mask? And do I really need to wear one when driving?
Here’s everything you need to know.
If you live in any of the five local government areas that encompass Greater Brisbane, it’s mandatory for you to wear a mask when you leave your home during lockdown.
If you’re driving into Greater Brisbane from elsewhere during the lockdown, you must have a mask ready to wear.
You can take your mask off while eating and drinking and while at your home.
You also don’t need to wear a mask if you are outside but within the boundaries of your home, for example to garden or mow the lawn.
You must wear a mask while:
- Driving your car
- Doing exercise
- In workplaces
- At weddings or funerals
- Shopping at supermarkets and shopping centres
- On public transport or shared transport
Read more: Masks when driving alone, and when exercising
