Mask Use Will Be Compulsory in Buenos Aires

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The head of government of the City of Buenos Aires, Horacio Rodríguez Larreta, announced on Monday morning, April 13th, that the wearing of homemade masks will be compulsory as of Wednesday, April 15th.

Argentina has extended its compulsory quarantine until April 26th, for the time being, in order to tackle the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The measure has been slightly relaxed, and now, in addition to healthcare facilities, food, and fuel distribution, banks may also open for scheduled services, and workshops for car repairs. Journalists and diplomats may also circulate, subject to authorization.

The remaining residents of the city may only leave their homes to buy medicine, food and for medical care. Anyone leaving home must wear some kind of facial protection.

The sale of surgical masks, however, is prohibited, so that there is no shortage for the health services.

“The more demanding we are with these standards, the faster we will come out of this. If two out of three people with coronavirus have no symptoms but can infect others, then we need to take this kind of measure. We must all behave as if we are carrying the virus,” Larreta said in a video conference on Monday morning.

People in violation of these rules can be arrested and prosecuted for public health violations and contempt of authority.

As a demonstration that the measure is effective, the city has dawned with its statues covered with masks, a sign that the measure applies to everyone.

Source: Folhapress