Mask wearing in closed spaces may become optional

Once the number of infections by covid-19 begins to decrease, the next issue that must be discussed by the authorities and advisors of the Ministry of Health (Minsa) is the mandatory use of the mask in closed spaces.

Panamanian scientists argue that the elimination of the use of the mask in closed or interior spaces should be optional.

Infectologist Xavier Sáez-Llorens said that after two years of crisis, people should know how to protect themselves and be responsible with their own health.

While researcher Paulino Vigil De Gracia said that the start and growth periods of each wave of infections are already known. For now, there are two waves per year and they take about two months each, he explained.

Both agree with the epidemiologist Arturo Rebollón in that the population must learn to identify the places where the risk of contagion is greater.

Although the Minsa has not set any date to abandon the mandatory use of the mask indoors, it is considered that once the number of cases of the covid-19 disease decreases, a decision will be made.

Health Minister Luis Francisco Sucre, indicated that when the fifth wave of infections begins to drop, the elimination of the mandatory use of the mask indoors will be analyzed.

“We will sit down with the Epidemiology team, the Advisory Council, and the President, who is the one who gives the last word. Then we will see if we can already eliminate the mask completely, but let’s wait for this wave to pass first, “he said.

Although the mandatory use of the mask in open or outdoor spaces was eliminated by the Health authorities on March 28, it is common to see people who choose to continue using it to avoid contagion.