"Despite the high vaccination coverage in Portugal and the current epidemiological situation, the use of masks continues to be an important measure to contain the infection, especially in environments and populations at higher risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection", said the DGS.

According to the published guidelines, the use of a mask remains mandatory in residential structures for the elderly, units of the National Network for Integrated Continued Care, concert halls, cinemas, congress rooms and event venues of a corporate nature or improvised venues for events.

In relation to commercial spaces and establishments, the DGS explains that the use of masks in commercial centres with an area greater than 400 m2 is included.

"Spaces and commercial establishments and establishments for the provision of services, in which physical contact with the client necessarily occurs, for example hairdressers, barbers or beauticians", are also included in the DGS list.

In public transport for passengers, including taxis and TVDE (such as Uber), there is also the obligation to wear masks, the same is also true in Citizens' Shops and in venues for sporting events and celebrations.

"Under the terms of current legislation, the use of masks is still mandatory for those working in bars, clubs, restaurants and similar", refers to the orientation 011/2021 of the DGS.

In another guideline regarding religious institutions, the DGS released a series of recommendations to be adopted by citizens and institutions, including promoting the ventilation of the place of worship, before, during and after a celebration, if possible keeping the windows and doors open, sanitize the entire space, including benches, supports and door handles, publicize and encourage protective measures and physical distance and making an alcohol-based solution dispenser available for people to disinfect their hands are some of the recommendations.

“The holy water fonts, near the entrances to the churches, should remain empty", says the DGS.

Regarding citizens who attend religious institutions, the DGS recommends, for example, that they comply with entry and exit guidelines, the use of a "face mask during the celebration" and that they keep their distance from other people, avoiding greetings with physical contact.