This week, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health Chris Fearne announced that as of Saturday, masks must be worn in open public spaces to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in Malta. However, there are a number of exceptions to the public mask-wearing rule.
Masks can be removed in public for a number of reasons. The first reason is during high-intensity physical activity and exercise. Kindergarten students are allowed to remove their masks while in the classroom, as are individuals who are communicating with others who require lip-reading to understand. Furthermore, given a provision of at least two meters between individuals, official public speaking allows individuals to remove their masks. Cases such as lectures, lessons or anything of the sort within academic institutions do not constitute as public speaking.
Masks can also be removed for identification purposes in places such as banks, airports or otherwise. The same goes for cosmetic treatments or services which involve the face or mouth as well as in cases of individuals who require medication. Individuals seated at establishments which serve food or drink can also remove their masks.
Masks can also be removed during the consumption of food or drink and while smoking. The only new exception is that individuals are not allowed to remove their masks in bathing areas after a wave of controversy which led the exception to be introduced in June 2021.
Anyone caught not following the mask-wearing measures may be subject to a fine of as much as €100.
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