Passengers at Bristol Airport have been sharing their concerns after finding themselves testing positive for Covid-19 just days after their trip. A number of passengers have taken to social media to share their thoughts, pointing out that they are but a few people among hundreds wearing a mask during their time in the airport.
One passenger (@sljohnstonRQ) tweeted this morning (July 5): "Covid has finally got me probably from a ridiculously busy Bristol airport where I was one of very few wearing a mask last week. While a second (GMOpines) wrote: "I am at a packed, hot, loud @BristolAirport this second.
"I can see one other person, of maybe two or three hundred in direct sight, who is wearing a mask. People have heard 'it's over' loud and clear."
Read more: Bristol Airport issues apology to customers waiting hours for baggage
The rule regarding face masks in England was lifted on January 27 meaning it was no longer mandatory to wear one. Further dates of rules being lifted came just months ago, when hospitals scrapped the rule for wearing one (in certain situations) - all part of the government's plan to move on from the pandemic.
So it's not surprising to now venture to somewhere like an airport and not see many masks adorning people's faces, as the government's message has previously been that choosing whether or not to wear one is "personal choice". However, recent news suggests that the wearing of masks may be brought back to the country as there are concerns that the number of people hospitalised with the virus will hit an 18-month high
Current cases of Covid-19 are on the rise again across the country - and Bristol is no different. Just days ago, we reported that one in 37 people tested positive for Covid-19 in the previous week, according to the weekly report from Bristol City Council. And Bristol Airport have told people that, just because they test positive for Covid-19 following their time at the airport, doesn't mean that they caught the virus here.
A spokesperson for Bristol Airport told Bristol Live that Covid is on the increase throughout the UK and is not specific to this area, adding: "We follow all government guidance regarding the wearing of face masks in public spaces. Currently there is not a requirement for face masks to be worn in the terminal building although colleagues and customers may decide to make a personal choice to wear a mask whilst in public areas.
"Customers are also advised to check their travel requirements regarding the wearing of face masks in their country of travel as these are subject to change. ”
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