FFP2 mask news from italy on June/2022

Italy’s transport FFP2 mask rule extended to September as Covid rate rises

Face masks will remain obligatory on Italian public transport - but not on flights - until the end of September following a recent rise in the contagion rate, the health ministry has confirmed.

As expected, Italy’s remaining rules on wearing masks in certain public places will end from Thursday, except for on most forms of public transport, in healthcare settings, and in care homes.

The change was confirmed in an ordinance signed by the health minister, Roberto Speranza, late on Wednesday following a cabinet meeting.

The mask mandate will continue to apply to all forms of local and long-distance public transport within the country until at least September 30th, including on buses, trains, trams, and ferries, the ordinance states.

However flights are not mentioned in the new ordinance, as ministers have reportedly chosen to lift the rules for air passengers entirely.

The FFP2 mask-wearing requirement in cinemas, theatres, concert halls, and at indoor sporting events has also been dropped.

Schools will not require pupils to wear a mask when sitting final exams, though masks continue to be recommended during exams and on school premises.

As existing rules expired on Wednesday, June 15th, the changes come in almost immediately from Thursday, June 16th.

No further details of the rule changes were immediately confirmed.

The government is expected to publish a decree in the coming days containing full details of the updated regulations.