Cantons split on mask wearing

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Groups that represent those considered at risk from Covid are urging the government and cantons not to relax the mask requirement too quickly.

The cantons are split on the issue. While all are urging a large-scale relaxation of the Covid rules from next week - many suggest the obligation to wear a mask in some circumstances remain. But there’s no agreement on when and where. 

Some say they’re only needed in medical facilities and public transport, others say no to public transport and other public areas. 

But those at risk are worried the rules will fall away too quickly. While they’ll be free to wear a mask if they choose, their protection is much higher if others around them are also wearing a mask - according to the vice-president of the federal scientific task force, Urs Karrer. He says the level of protection can be as much as 200 times better. 

In Geneva, the canton is calling for an end of all the restrictions except mask wearing. It wants to keep masks on the buses and trams, in shops and places where vulnerable people are cared for. 

The government is expected to announce a major relaxation next week. 
 

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