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I fear the TV ad missed a trick by not showing virus particles escape from people who wear their face mask UNDER the nose or chin, not to mention those who take off their face mask before talking to someone. After nearly 2 years of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic I have yet to encounter anyone on TV or in the media point out that face masks only work if used as intended.
It is sad that this government campaign to emphasise that Covid-19 is airborne, and the measures that can control it, has been watered down through the interference of Grant Shapps, the transport secretary.[1]
Apparently, explaining the risks of travelling on public transport so that members of the public can make an informed decision about whether to do so (and what mitigations they might wish to employ - such as wearing and FFP2 or better mask) might put people off travelling and lead to lower profits for transport companies.
This is yet another example of political (ministerial) interference in public health; and it will not improve the public's health.
1. Devereux-Evans O. Grant Shapps blocks new Covid-19 public transport adverts over concerns they will alarm passengers and put the public off using trains and buses. Daily Mail/Mail Online 2021; Updated 07 Nov 2021; Accessed: 2021 (08 Nov):
Re: Sixty seconds on . . . hanging around
Dear Editor
I fear the TV ad missed a trick by not showing virus particles escape from people who wear their face mask UNDER the nose or chin, not to mention those who take off their face mask before talking to someone. After nearly 2 years of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic I have yet to encounter anyone on TV or in the media point out that face masks only work if used as intended.
Competing interests: No competing interests