Confusion over updated coronovirus mask advice

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Some authorities say surgical masks are safe to use for swabs in ‘mild cases’, but that appears to contradict other recommendations.

Associate Professor Mark Morgan, Chair of the RACGP Expert Committee – Quality Care (REC–QC), told newsGP questions remain over the source of the information, how it has been disseminated, and whether it is based on evidence that has been gathered overseas.
 
‘It would give GPs much more confidence if, in addition to the fact sheets, there was reference information for those who want to dig into it and understand where the advice comes from,’ he said.
 
‘Is there a science behind this based on the measurement of viral shedding or information that’s been gathered from the experience in China and other countries, or is this just some expert opinion that could be changed again in light of health workers being infected by taking the lesser level of precaution?
 
‘If we start infecting the healthcare population, then our ability to manage the next phase of the pandemic will be deeply impaired.’