08 July 2022
Optometrists have been encouraged to implement universal masking if their practice risk assessment indicates it is a necessary infection control measure.
The AOP guidance follows NHS England requesting that primary care practices in the Midlands review their mask-wearing guidance following a significant increase in COVID-19 infections over the past week.
Healthcare providers have been asked to consider universal masking for staff and patients following a 97% increase in COVID-19 cases in acute settings within NHS Midlands in the first week of July.
The AOP highlighted that it is likely that other areas in England may receive similar guidance.
It is recommended that optometrists implement universal masking if their practice-based risk assessment indicates it is a necessary infection control measure, based on local COVID-19 case prevalence or a new circulating variant of concern.
Local transmission information regarding COVID-19 cases can be found online.
The AOP’s face covering guidance recommends that optometrists should continue to wear a fluid-resistant surgical face mask where there is a public health requirement for one to be worn in line with section B39 of the Guidance for Professional Practice.
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