Important Notice
Source: Government of Malta
Where to use a face mask:
As of 8th August 2020, one must mandatorily wear a surgical or cloth mask at all times:
- Inside shops;
- When using public transport;
- Whilst travelling between Malta and Gozo including in the Cirkewwa and Imgarr terminals;
- Within the terminal building of the Malta International Airport.
Any person who does not wear a surgical or cloth mask as stated above is liable to a €100 fine.
In instances when the offence is admitted and the penalty is paid before the proceedings commence before the Commissioner of Justice, the offender will be made to pay €50 instead of €100.
Extension of the mandatory use of face masks:
As of 19 August 2020, at 08:00 (8 am), one must mandatorily wear a face mask in all enclosed (indoor) public spaces.
The use of face masks is not a substitute for social distancing and regular hand washing but wearing a face mask reduces the risk of transmission of COVID-19.
As of 19 August 2020, at 08:00 (8 am), group gatherings of more than 15 people in a public area or in an area which is accessible to the public are banned. In cases of gatherings of 15 people or less, where it may be difficult to maintain social distancing, wearing a face mask is still recommended. It is also recommended to wear a face mask when giving someone (e.g. a neighbor) a lift in one’s private car.
When putting a mask on:
- Make sure that the mask covers the whole of your face from where the nose starts to under your chin, and that you tighten it against your face;
- Wash your hands with soap and water or by alcohol sanitizer prior to putting on, or removing, the mask;
- Never touch your face or the mask after you’ve worn it;
- When removing the mask, start by removing it from the back where the laces are, and never from the front;
- If the mask you’re wearing is single-use, make sure to dispose of it safely;
- If your mask is multi-use, wash it immediately after each use, using normal detergent and at a temperature of 60 degrees Celsius.
How does one safely remove a used cloth face mask?
- Bend your head forward
- Remove mask from behind (do not touch the front of mask);
- Store safely in a fabric bag, where possible, until able to wash both mask and bag;
- Clean hands with soap and running water or alcohol-based hand rub;
- Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth when removing your face mask,
- Clean your hands with soap and water or alcohol rub immediately after removing
We have to wear masks so that we do not transmit the virus without realising it. Wearing your mask protects others and others wearing a mask protects you.
New face mask regulations translated into English, Arabic, Bangla, Somali, Tigrinya and French by UNHCR.
For more information and updates visit www.health.gov.mt