As the federal government de facto suspends the mask regulation in Austria, many people feel alienated. Vulnerable people in particular are increasingly afraid of a corona infection. An explosive proposal is now making waves: trains must have their own compartments for anyone who wants to continue wearing a face mask.
The “mask will come back,” Health Minister Johannes Rauch (Greens) assured Tuesday, but on June 1, the mask requirement in essential trade and public transport will be lifted, at least temporarily.
Concerned users, who felt almost at the mercy of the virus because of the decision, spoke out on social networks. Voluntarily wearing a mask wouldn’t work well enough, one Twitter user argued she now feared her daily commute.
Protection for vulnerable people?
“I wonder if it wouldn’t be possible to make ‘mask compartments’ in trains?” Rudi Anschober’s former press spokeswoman asked. This would help anyone who is at particular risk of contamination due to their health situation, but wants to feel safe on the train, the argument goes.
Mask in public transport “essential” for experts
“At least in public transport, where people often cannot keep their distance, I still find the mask indispensable,” explains molecular biologist from the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW) Ulrich Elling via Twitter. The suggestion of a mask compartment is similar in basic idea to that of wheelchair ramps, if not dirty. But he immediately has an alternative ready: special ventilation or HEPA filters.
Is a mask enough for self-protection?
However, it is questionable whether the idea will actually be taken up by the Austrian railways or the Ministry of Health. If not, those affected will likely only be able to protect themselves.
Wearing a mask on public transport would probably still be the wisest option for everyone. Because: According to a study by the Max Planck Society in Göttingen, the chance of contracting a corona-infected person within five minutes without a mask, even at a distance of three meters, is almost 100 percent.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
