Prize-winning scientist says 'Not wearing a face covering should be as taboo as drink-driving'
Author: Rafi Benady | Tuesday 7th July 2020
A Nobel prize-winning scientist says the absence of a face mask in public should be as frowned upon as drink driving.
Dr Venki Ramakrishnan who won the prestigious award in 2009 says British citizens should use “every tool we have” to prevent a second wave of Covid-19.
He said: "There are no silver bullets but alongside hand washing and physical distancing, we also need everyone to start wearing face coverings, particularly indoors in enclosed public spaces where physical distancing is often not possible."
He added: "There are no silver bullets but alongside hand washing and physical distancing, we also need everyone to start wearing face coverings, particularly indoors in enclosed public spaces.
Dr Ramakrishnan noted how far the UK was behind other nations in terms of guidelines on face coverings, such as Italy and Spain who “routinely” wear face masks.
In England it has been compulsory to wear a face covering when on public transport since June 15. It will be compulsory to wear a face mask on public transport in Northern Ireland from July 10.
