A CLARE GP is supporting calls for people to wear masks in public places in a bid to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses, which has resulted in increased admissions to local surgeries and University Hospital Limerick. Dr Michael Kelleher estimates presentations to his practice has gone up by up to 20% over the last four weeks due to the surge in RSV, Covid-19 and influenza. The Lahinch doctor recalled mask wearing was a very effective measure during peak Covid-19 surges and should again be repeated in the midst of a significant hike in respiratory illnesses. “There is evidence that wearing a mask reduces droplet transmission. In the midst of a surge in respiratory illnesses, I think wearing masks in public places might be perfectly reasonable, particularly if you are a vulnerable individual. “Wearing a mask protects a person you are in close contact with more than yourself. It does make sense. If there was more mask wearing in public, …
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