Face masks are now being recommended as a result of the higher number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases currently occurring across Melbourne, Australia.

The Victorian State Government advises the following:

"Wearing a face mask helps keep you and others safe. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is spread from close contact with an infected person and can be spread when a person coughs or sneezes.

The best way to protect others against coronavirus (COVID-19) is keeping 1.5 metres between yourself and others, wash your hands often, and cough or sneeze into your elbow or tissue. Face masks add an additional protective physical barrier to protect you and your loved ones."

Cloth face coverings should NOT be worn by children under the age of 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.