Update from GOV.UK for: Infection prevention and control in adult social care
Face masks
Care workers and visitors to care homes do not routinely need to wear a face mask at all times in care settings or when providing care in people’s own homes. However there remain a number of circumstances where it is recommended that care workers and visitors to care settings wear masks to minimise the risk of transmission of COVID-19. These are:
if the person being cared for is known or suspected to have COVID-19 (recommended Type IIR fluid-repellent surgical mask)
if the member of staff is a household or overnight contact of someone who has had a positive test result for COVID-19
if the care setting is in an outbreak – see section on outbreak management for further information
If a care recipient is particularly vulnerable to severe outcomes from COVID-19 (for example, potentially eligible for COVID-19 therapeutics ) mask wearing may be considered on an individual basis in accordance with their preferences.
Mask wearing may also be considered when an event or gathering is assessed as having a particularly high risk of transmission.
If the care recipient would prefer care workers or visitors to wear a mask while providing them with care then this should be supported. Providers should also support the personal preferences of care workers and visitors to wear a mask in scenarios over and above those recommended in this guidance.
As per the recommendations for standard precautions, type IIR masks should always be worn if there is a risk of splashing of blood or body fluids.