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Mask wearing may increase flu risk

Tuesday, 21 September 2021 04:00

Could generalised mask wearing mean this winter’s flu epidemic will be worse than normal?

Infectious disease expert, Andreas Widmer says there should be more flexible mask wearing rules for those who are fully vaccinated to make sure the standard flu virus spreads. 

He says the population haven’t had the opportunity to build immunity. There are fears the current hygiene measures will be beneficial for the flu virus. 

Widmer goes on to say that he fears the coming of winter will see hospitals fill up again – but this time with flu patients. 

But the Federal Health Office says it has no plans to change the rules and so far is not noticing a rise in cases of other viruses. 
 

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