Officials expect to loosen mask requirements by the end of November, but are still determining whether it’s safe. Disposable face masks were indispensable in preventing the spread of the pandemic in Taiwan.
As cases decline, health authorities are debating easing masking rules in public spaces. COVID-19 cases hit a new low of 11,888 on Monday, the lowest figure since April.
Officials say that as a public health intervention, masks are not only effective against COVID-19, but also help mitigate seasonal colds and the flu.
Officials are also considering the number of vacant hospital beds. But given that most people have come to tolerate masks well and that mask-wearing is relatively low-cost, it is likely that many will continue to wear face masks in public, even after mandates are lifted.