Doctor demonstrates on GMB how to wear face masks without contaminating them during coronavirus pandemic

A doctor is advising Britons to practice wearing face masks at home as she warns of the slight movements that could contaminate coverings when in public spaces.

The Government announced that as of July 24, Brits must have their nose and mouth covered in shops in England when they go shopping or risk a £100 fine.

Ahead of the new changes coming into force on Friday, Good Morning Britain doctor Sarah Jarvis reminded people of the importance of not touching your face when wearing face masks during the coronavirus pandemic.

"One of the big issues with masks is that if you do fiddle with them constantly and you haven't washed your hands you could contaminate your face," she said.

"So it's a really good to get into the habit, if you're going to be wearing them when you're out when there is contamination around, to start wearing one at your home.

"Because that will start getting you into the habit of only using the straps and not touching your face when you take it on or off, not putting it underneath your chin, not dangling it around one ear - none of those things work and they could contaminate you."

It is mandatory to wear face coverings on public transport
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Dr Jarvis added that children under the age of 11 do not need to wear face masks in England but that it is "good practice" for them to start wearing them.

"I think older children, certainly by the time they get to six or seven - it might be quite a fun thing for them," she said.

Under certain circumstances Britons are exempt from having to wear a face mask in shops and on public transport.

Dr Jarvis explained why some people might feel like they are experiencing shortness of breath when wearing face masks.

She gave the example of people with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), who might experience shortness of breath when they exert themselves.

"If you have something on your face you may well feel anxious about it," said Dr Jarvis.

"The good news is we know that it doesn't have that effect. What we can now do is to try and encourage people to put [face masks] on at home.

"If you go out and you get into a shop and get a bit anxious you will naturally start to feel more short of breath, and the reason for that is you are over breathing, you've got more adrenaline and adrenaline naturally makes you want to breathe more, it makes you feel breathless."

Health Secretary Matt Hancock told MPs last week: “Should an individual without an exemption refuse to wear a face covering, a shop can refuse them entry and can call the police if people refuse to comply.

“The police have formal enforcement powers and can issue a fine.”

He added face coverings would help give people “more confidence to shop safely” and help protect staff.

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