NHS leader’s advice on face masks ‘risks confusion’ over fighting flu

An NHS leader who said people with flu symptoms “must wear” a face mask in public risks causing “confusion” among the public over official guidance on how to fight the virus, health experts have warned.

- Andrew Gregory Denis Campbell

The number of people in hospital with flu in England is at a record level for this time of year. At least six hospitals across the UK have told patients to stay away owing to a surge in flu cases this week.

Daniel Elkeles, the chief executive of NHS Providers, said on Tuesday: “If you are coughing and sneezing, but you're not unwell enough to not go to work, you must wear a mask when you're in public spaces, including on public transport.” His comments received widespread coverage.

But health experts said his advice could undermine public faith in official guidance from government bodies such as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which only says people should “consider” wearing a mask in such circumstances.