The World Health Organisation has updated its guidance to recommend children aged 12 and above wear face masks.
The new advice says those aged 12 and over “should wear a mask under the same conditions as adults, in particular when they cannot guarantee at least a one-metre distance from others and there is widespread transmission in the area”.
Younger children could be asked to wear face coverings depending on the situation, the guidance adds, but in general children aged five and under “should not be required to wear masks”.
The WHO said people should always consult and follow local rules on masks.