Face masks to remain optional for Swiss

The Swiss government has decided not to impose a general obligation for residents to wear face masks as the country starts relaxing coronavirus restrictions next week.

Interior Minister Alain Berset said the government stood by its policy that healthy people are not required to wear protective masks in public.

The decision was taken in consultation with Swiss experts and the Sweden-based European Centre for Disease and Prevention Control, he said.

“The best hygiene measures to prevent infections are still keeping distance and washing hands,” Berset told a news conference on Wednesday.

However, the government recommends that passengers using public transport in rush hours wear protective masks. Clients in shops may also need masks in line with health and safety regulations in certain shops.

Read more via Swissinfo