When face masks are required to be worn in Central Qld
Confusion was sparked in regional communities after a comment from a Queensland leader. Here’s what you need to know.
Central Queensland
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A Facebook comment from the Queensland Premier has sparked confusion across the region as to who needs to wear face masks following the recent Covid outbreak in Brisbane and positive case visiting Rockhampton.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk replied to a Facebook comment on Monday night, which stated it was “mandatory” for all Queenslanders outside the lockdown areas to carry a mask at all times, and must be worn in shopping centres, on public transport and in taxis.
Locals across Emerald took to the community Facebook page to share their confusion, with the comment not aligning with information on the Queensland Health website.
But a Queensland Health spokesman has since confirmed that the information in the comment slightly differed from requirements.
He said anyone outside of south east Queensland’s lockdown areas were only required to wear a mask at airports, on domestic flights and in stadiums.
Although all Queenslanders have been urged to keep a mask with them in case they are in a situation where physical distancing cannot be maintained.
There are some exceptions to wearing a face mask, including:
- children under 12
- a person eating, drinking or taking medicine
- where visibility of the mouth is essential
- where a mask needs to be removed to clearly communicate
- a person with a particular medical condition or disability
- a person undergoing medical treatment
- if a person is asked to remove a face mask for identity purposes
- if wearing a mask creates a risk to a person’s health and safety
- in an emergency or when required by law
- in any circumstances when it’s not safe to wear a mask
- if you are an aircrew member or airport worker who is not interacting directly with passengers
Click here to see the full list of requirements as per Queensland Health guidelines.
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