COVID-19 Primary Care bulletin

14 June 2020

COVID-19: latest guidance on use of face masks

Dear colleagues,

A short bulletin today, setting out the latest guidance on use of face masks.

Public Health England (PHE) has published the government policy recommendations, based on evidence presented to the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, for hospital settings including use of face coverings for those visiting hospitals and face masks for staff when in non-clinical areas.

In primary care settings there are two relevant pieces of advice that should be followed. 

• The advice published by Public Health England on the use of Personal Protective Equipment in primary care
• Further Government advice on working safely in non-hospital settings

Please do also ensure you read and follow the latest guidance on the Test and Trace service announced by the Government last week to minimise community transmission of COVID-19, alongside the letter sent to organisations across the NHS on 9 June, asking you to take actions to minimise the spread of infections in the NHS.

PHE has a clear process for deciding on whether further guidance is needed which includes an evidence review, clear rationale and agreement at a government scientific committee. We will continue to work with stakeholders and PHE to establish whether further guidance is required.

Nikki and Ed