Deyalsingh: People may exercise with face shields

THE PUBLIC health regulations compels people to cover their nose, mouths and chin. But it does not necessarily have to be with a mask, says Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh.

Deyalsingh, speaking at the ministry's media briefing on Saturday morning, said there was a widespread misconception about the regulations.

"These regulations are not only about masks," he said.

"In the interpretation section of the regulations – section two ..'Face covering' means a covering of any type which covers the nose, mouth and chin of any person wearing it. It does not specify a mask."

Deyalsingh, who was wearing a plastic face mask resembling a visor, said those who are asthmatic and those who are exercising in public can use the shield.

The regulation says no person shall, without reasonable excuse, travel in a vehicle or vessel without covering the nose, mouth and chin.

"If you can't wear a cloth mask, wear a face shield," said Deyalsingh. "(It) gives a high degree of protection, but not more than a mask. You can exercise in it."