Despite the current outbreak of the Influenza A H1N1 (swine flu), the Director General in the Health Communication Centre, Gamaliel Binamungu, has advised that it is not necessary for anyone to wear a mask while in public places.

"The use of masks as a preventive measure in public places like in schools and work places is not at all recommended.

Even countries with a higher number of cases are not using them. One should wear it if they have the virus, or when caring for an infected person,” he told The New Times.

Regarding its use, he said the user must place the mask carefully to cover mouth and nose and tie securely to minimize any gaps between the face and the mask.

"While in use, avoid touching the mask and at the time of removal, one must remember to wash hands with soap and water. It is also imperative to replace masks with a new clean one as soon as they become damp or humid,” Binamungu added.

Recent reports show that the number of infected individuals has dropped over days with only four new cases and over 90 recovered patients.

The internal outbreak of the influenza was reported on nine October this year. Originally Swine flu was first confirmed in Mexico last April.

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