18 April 2023

COVID-19 update – Mask Wearing

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has updated its guidance about mask wearing for all health care workers (HCW) with effect from 19 April 2023

• Healthcare workers in low-risk settings, when caring for those who do not have suspected or confirmed COVID-19 or respiratory viral infection, no longer need to wear a face mask for all interactions with patients.

This applies to optometrists, dispensing opticians and other staff working in primary eye care practices. However, staff may still choose to wear a mask if they wish, and these should continue to be available.

Minimising Exposure

HSE also reminds us that, in the context of risk of COVID 19 and other respiratory infections, PPE is only one aspect of an essential suite of infection minimisation controls which include scrupulous attention to hand hygiene, respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, ventilation and environmental hygiene. These should continue as before.

The full updated guidance is here.