The compulsory use of face masks could slow the spread of Covid-19 by as much as 40 percent, according to researchers in Germany.
The study found the number of positive cases dropped significantly after coverings were made mandatory in shops and public transport.
Here, a new campaign is being launched next week to encourage more people to wear face coverings in places where social distancing is difficult. But they're not being made compulsory.
Long-term side effects
Meanwhile, Public health officials are warning some people who've recovered from the virus are still experiencing long-term side effects and aren't back to full health.
They are urging the public to do all they can to still avoid contracting Covid-19, despite 92 per cent of cases recovering fully.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronan Glynn;
"Perhaps you're younger, perhaps because you don't perceive yourself as someone who might suffer the most significant affects of this disease if you are to become infected, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't still be doing all in your power to ensure you don't get this disease."
The Covid-19 death toll here now stands at 1,703, after a further 8 patients died, while 8 new cases have been recorded in the past 24 hours.
