DOH revising rules for wearing face shields

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said they have already prepared revisions to the joint memorandum circular which lays down the guidelines but the concurrence of other agencies is needed before it could be implemented.

She said the use of face shields will be “refocused” to high-risk areas under the 3Cs (closed, crowded, close contact) framework following recommendations from health experts.

“Ito ‘yung indoor activities, especially in settings where there is crowding or exposure risk or promotes close contact based on the nature of work such as establishments and in transportation,” she said in an online forum.

Face shields are likewise recommended in indoor and outdoor dining, other indoor and outdoor gatherings or crowded settings, and indoor and outdoor activities that promote close contact such as personal care services.

“It is highly recommended to use in settings not otherwise stated, especially in areas under Alert Level 3, 4, and 5,” she said.

The President earlier announced that the use of face shields will be relaxed and need no longer be worn outdoors, upon the recommendation of experts.