Covid-19: UAE ministry clarifies who all must wear masks and when

Wearing mask as a precautionary measure to prevent Covid-19 spread is only mandatory for people suffering from chronic diseases and those with flu symptoms, according to authorities.

The Ministry of Interior said wearing masks is a necessity only for individuals suffering from chronic diseases and those with flu symptoms rather than other segments of society, according to World Health Organisation guidelines.

These instructions are in addition to the ministry's earlier clarification on the same subject and in response to public queries about the conditions of wearing masks as part of the precautionary and preventive measures taken to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

The ministry also emphasised the importance of adhering to all precautionary measures, following news updates on the ongoing precautionary developments from the country's official sources - and disregard rumours.

The UAE Attorney General on Friday issued a resolution listing penalties ranging from Dh500 to Dh50,000 for violating precautionary measures put in place to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Khaleej Times has sought for clarification from concerned authorities on the latest guidelines and fines for violating the Covid-19 precautionary measures, including the Dh1,000 fine for not wearing medical masks indoors or failing to keep a safe distance and we shall give more details when we get more information.

A senior government official told Khaleej Times that apart from penalties, it is rather everyone's responsibility in the community-citizens and residents, to ensure the health and safety of the nation.

"It's everyone's responsibility to protect their lives and the lives of others. If someone suffers from a chronic disease or from symptoms of cold and flu, they should wear the face masks. And it's important that people stay at home unless it's really necessary for them to go outside," said the official.

He noted that the recent resolution issued by the Attorney General and the precautionary measures by the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Health, are not aimed at scaring people but to inform the general public about the seriousness of the pandemic and that it requires tough measures.

"Regardless of the timings during which people can be penalised for violating precautionary measures, it's important that people protect their health first, the health of their neighbours and the community at large through following the precautionary measures in place," said the official.