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Covid-19

Finland ends general face mask recommendation

Despite the new recommendation, the country's health agency suggested continuing the use of face masks in a number of situations.

Ihmisiä Tampereen katukuvassa.
THL said that people can still use face masks at their own discretion, regardless of the new guidance, for example in indoor settings where close contact with others is difficult to avoid. Image: Jani Aarnio / Yle
  • Yle News

The Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) announced on Thursday it is dropping its general face mask use recommendation, on the grounds that the protective devices do not significantly reduce the spread of coronavirus.

However, THL said it continues to suggest the use of face masks on public transport, in indoor public settings as well as at Covid testing, vaccination and treatment facilities for people who suspect they might have Covid, those suffering respiratory symptoms and individuals who have been exposed to the virus when they are out and about.

The institute said it always recommends for symptomatic people to stay at home until the symptoms subside.

Additionally, the agency's face mask recommendation update does not apply to workplaces. Such guidelines are determined by employers, based on instructions from the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health.

Different regional guidance on face mask use may also be in place, depending on the area. Meanwhile, social service and healthcare facilities also have separate rules for their use, THL noted.

The institute added that people can still use face masks at their own discretion, regardless of the new guidance, for example in indoor settings where close contact with others is difficult to avoid.

THL's chief physician, Otto Helve, said that the use of face masks by some groups was still worthwhile.

"It's worth considering using masks that effectively protects the wearer, especially for unvaccinated people over the age of 12 and those at risk of serious illness from a coronavirus infection, regardless of their vaccination status," Helve explained.

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EDIT 15.4.2022 The second paragraph originally read:

However, THL said it continues to suggest the use of face masks on public transport, in indoor public settings as well as at Covid testing, vaccination and treatment facilities. It also recommends use of masks by people suffering respiratory symptoms and individuals who have been exposed to the virus when they are out and about.