Coronavirus: WHO says masks shouldn’t be worn during ‘intense physical activity’
- World Health Organization updates guidelines, says wearing masks in some circumstances can have negative effects
- WHO said other virus prevention measures, like distancing and ventilation, need to be in place in indoor exercise venues
Masks should not be worn during “vigorous intensity physical activity”, according to controversial guidance by the World Health Organization.
The advice issued Tuesday doesn't appear to be entirely new for the organisation, though it surprised experts.
The WHO said the updated guidelines, which include tightened mask-wearing advice in situations other than exercise, are based on the latest research, though more is needed. Masks, it reiterated, aren't a silver bullet but need to be used as a part of a comprehensive plan to defeat the novel coronavirus.
There's not a lot of research on the pros and cons of wearing masks during exercise. But the WHO pointed out that some studies have shown wearing them during mild to moderate physical activity can lead to significant negative cardiovascular and pulmonary effects in both healthy people and those with underlying respiratory diseases.
People who wear respirators while exercising, as well as those who have diseases like asthma and COPD and wear any mask while working out, seem to fare worst.
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From translation, monitoring vitals signs to purifying air, face masks go hi-tech