Face masks will no longer have to be worn outdoors in places where there is no prolonged close contact

As the epidemiological situation improves, the existing safety measures continue to be reviewed. On 15 June, the government approved the amendments developed by the Ministry of Health*, lifting the requirement to wear face coverings over the mouth and nose outdoors in places where people are not in prolonged close contact.

Going forward, face masks will no longer have to be worn outdoors in places with large flows of people, provided that people are not in prolonged close contact with one another.

Face masks may, for example, be worn optionally at street trading venues, in outdoor public catering establishments, including outdoor terraces, during outdoor classes at educational institutions, as well as in psychological support therapy groups, campaign events, religious services and children’s camps held outdoors.

However, in places where close contact cannot be avoided—for example, at events where people remain close to one another for a prolonged period—mask use may also be required outdoors.

Face coverings over the mouth and nose must still be worn on public transport and indoors, where the risk of Covid-19 infection transmission remains high.

*Amendments to Cabinet Regulation No. 360 of 9 June 2020, “Epidemiological Safety Measures to Limit the Spread of Covid-19 Infection”.

Author:

Ministry of Health

vm.gov.lv