Comfortable-fitting masks that cover the nose and mouth, and have ear loops - They are personal protective equipment for preventing the spread of disease/virus/bacteria. If worn properly, a surgical mask is meant to help block particles, droplets, splashes, sprays, or splatter that may contain germs, keeping it from reaching your mouth and nose. Surgical masks may also help reduce exposure of your saliva and respiratory secretions to others.

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COVID-19

Surgical masks are not intended to be used more than once. If your mask is damaged or soiled, or if breathing through the mask becomes difficult, you should remove the face mask, discard it safely, and replace it with a new one.

 

When do you need to wear a mask?

According to the City of Toronto, masks are mandatory in all public and enclosed indoor spaces. This means they will be required on public transportation such as the TTC and ferries to the Toronto Islands, as well as inside shops, grocery stores and malls.

The bylaw took effect on July 7.

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Will there be a fine for not wearing a mask?

The City of Toronto admitted there would not be “aggressive enforcement” when it comes to the mask policy, but at the same time, Tory (Mayor) said that it is up to every business to have a policy in place to ensure compliance, suggesting a “no shirt - no shoes - no mask - no service” model.

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Why is this policy necessary?

Experts have said that wearing a mask will prevent the wearer from spraying droplets on others, helping curb the transmission of the disease if they are asymptomatic.

The reality is that the virus continues to circulate and that we still need to be cautious. 

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With files from Chris Fox - Toronto CTV News 2020. https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/what-you-need-to-know-about-toronto-s-mandatory-mask-policy-1.5006032