This rule lasted 318 days, since the approval of the law, on October 28, 2020, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, and has been successively renewed by the parliament, which will not happen now.
The DGS advises the use of a mask "when the occurrence of groups of peopple is expected or whenever it is not possible to maintain the recommended physical distance".
The DGS also recommends its use on the street by "most vulnerable people", namely "with chronic diseases or immunosuppression states with increased risk for severe Covid-19", whenever "moving outside their place of residence".
In guidance, the DGS reiterates that the use of a mask "is an effective measure in preventing the transmission of SARS-CoV-2", stressing that, despite the end of the mandatory use on the streets, the use of this mask "continues to be an important measure to contain the infection, especially in environments and populations with greater risk".
The use of the mask will continue to be mandatory "in educational, teaching and nursery establishments", in "commercial spaces and service provision establishments", in "public buildings", in "cinemas or similar" in "collective passenger transport" and "in workplaces, whenever physical distance is not possible".
The wearing of the mask will continue to be mandatory also in "residential establishments for the elderly (ERPI), units of the National Network of Continuous Integrated Care (RNCCI) and other structures and residential responses for children, young people and people with disabilities, applicants and beneficiaries of international protection and reception of victims of domestic violence and human trafficking".
It is also mandatory to wear a mask by people "with SARS-CoV-2 infection or with symptoms" of the disease and by people considered to be in "contact of a confirmed case of covid-19", except when they are alone "in their place of isolation".
Portugal will pay a big price for yet another big mistake. But yet again this seams to be the policy at the moment making mistakes. Stupidity at it best.
By J from Lisbon on 13 Sep 2021, 11:24
Finally, no more stupid masks outdoors!
What was the point? Is there 1 case that is proven to be infected with Corona outdoors?
By Michael Blesh from Algarve on 14 Sep 2021, 13:33
There has to be an upside to getting the vaccination! If you want the younger population to be incentivised to do so, it’s time to lift the restrictions and especially I think end the bubbles in schools, at least the 1st to 4th grades.
By Carl from Lisbon on 14 Sep 2021, 16:23
Personally I think Portugal are going about all this in the right way. Yes I hate wearing masks outdoors but remember it was only if you were within 2 metres of someone else. In Portugal cases and deaths are decreasing while in the UK its all increasing. I feel a lot safer here than I would in the UK
By Robert from Algarve on 15 Sep 2021, 10:28
Three more idiots & morons who have not got a clue what they are taking about. Wearing masks is about protecting other people whether you like it or not. Go back to where you came from and infect them. No Brain only thinking of your self.
By J from USA on 18 Sep 2021, 12:31
Avid Reader
By Grant from Algarve on 21 Sep 2021, 12:04
This is addressed to J from the USA. I do not think that wearing a mask will make a jot of difference outdoors. As you are from the US, I would stay in the US and do what you wish, but do not comment on opinions of others.
By Grant from Algarve on 21 Sep 2021, 12:08
Darn! Have to wear my dentures again the moment I step out of the house. Jokes aside, I would have preferred to wait till next spring and then ease the covid-19 restrictions.
By Joaquim from Beiras on 21 Sep 2021, 14:36
J is a troll. I see he's now from "USA". Come on Portugal News his derogatory remarks about the Brits is bordering on racist. Why give him air time ?
By Steve from UK on 21 Sep 2021, 16:00
Good article..I think it's a wise thing to wear masks, as even though you say it's not mandatory, it IS for me... Masks are not stupid. People are! Mask helps protect. I have worn one everywhere for 2 years, and not even a cold! nothing.. Portugal has handled this very well if you compare the the mess of the Uk.
By Julie Hodgson from Alentejo on 22 Sep 2021, 09:11