19 July 2021
From Wednesday 21 July, Islanders over the age of 12 must wear masks when entering an indoor public space.
Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Richard Renouf, will sign an order to make this change as the amount of COVID-19 cases in Jersey rise.
The requirement to wear masks in public indoor spaces where physical distancing and other measures cannot be guaranteed is one of a number of public health measures that, together, reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 and minimise its spread in the community.
This makes mask-use compulsory in supermarkets, shops, post offices, banks, on public transport, in health care settings and when using close-contact services such as hairdressers and beauticians.
Islanders must ensure they wear masks in the following settings:
- Shops, banks, markets, auction houses, betting houses, and libraries
- Indoor food and drink premises, except when seated at a table. This includes when queuing to buy a take-away
- Close contact premises, including hairdressers and health services
- Communal areas in hotels and accommodation premises
- Functions rooms and community halls (including parish halls) when being used for an event such as a performance, rehearsal, meeting, party, exhibition, evening class or other group activity
- In gyms and indoor physical activity facilities
- Visitor attractions and entertainment facilities
- Places used for weddings, funerals or worship if more than 50 people are participating
- Vehicles used by driving instructors
Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Richard Renouf, said: "Due to the rise in COVID-19 cases in Jersey, it has been deemed appropriate to bring mandatory mask wearing back into practice.
"We are doing all we can to protect Islanders and our health care system, while also keeping the island functioning as far as possible. Masks remain a very effective means in minimising the transmission of COVID-19."
"While we have seen a rise in cases over the past two weeks, it is important to remember the effect our vaccination programme has had on the Island. As of 14 July, over 72,000 Islanders have had at least one dose which is a tremendous figure. The COVID-19 vaccine offers good protection against the virus and I continue to urge everyone to book their slot if they have yet to do so."
An exemption certificate will be available for people whose health conditions mean they cannot safely wear masks. Application forms will be available online and from a number of agreed public locations, like parish halls, larger supermarkets and the bus station. Mask exemption cards will be issued to those who have filled out an application form.
gov.je