Swiss Experts Urge Return to Face Masks Amid Covid Resurgence

Swiss epidemiologists are advocating for the public to resume wearing face masks as Covid-19 cases rise once again. This recommendation comes just three years after the pandemic was officially declared over, reflecting increasing concerns about viral infections, particularly as winter approaches.

Health officials in the UK have reported a notable surge in Covid cases, with the latest statistics from the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) indicating an increase in confirmed cases. From October 3, there were **2,459** new cases reported in the week leading up to September 24, marking a **7.6 percent** rise compared to the previous week. The emergence of the new Stratus strain, which includes variants XFG and XFG.3, is contributing to this uptick.

Experts Weigh in on Mask Usage

Tanja Stadler, an epidemiologist at **ETH Zurich** and chair of the Swiss Confederation’s Covid scientific task force, emphasized the effectiveness of masks in reducing the transmission of viruses. She stated, “In crowded, enclosed spaces, such as public transportation, it’s advisable for vulnerable people—those over 65 or those with compromised immune systems.” Stadler also pointed out that those who are not considered vulnerable could choose to wear masks to protect themselves and demonstrate solidarity with others.

While she does not advocate for a return to compulsory mask mandates, as seen during the height of the pandemic, Stadler suggests that authorities establish a “virus bulletin” to keep the public informed about potential hotspots for viral transmission. She noted, “Data on the spread of viruses already exists, but it’s not easily accessible to the public. Making it available would help those who want to protect themselves act accordingly.”

Marcel Tanner, a professor emeritus of public health at the **University of Basel** and a former member of the Covid Task Force, echoed these sentiments. He remarked that it would be prudent for anyone with cold-like symptoms to wear a mask, particularly on public transportation.

Current Data and Global Perspectives

The emergence of the XFG variant has raised questions about its severity. According to Dr. Allen from the UKHSA, “Based on the available information so far, there is no evidence to suggest that the XFG and XFG.3 variants cause more severe disease than previous variants, or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against them.”

The **World Health Organization** (WHO) has also classified the XFG strain as posing a “low risk” globally. Their assessment indicates that while XFG is spreading rapidly compared to other variants, it exhibits only marginal immune evasion compared to its counterparts. The WHO noted, “While there are reported increases in cases and hospitalizations in some Southeast Asian countries, there are no reports to suggest that the associated disease severity is higher compared to other circulating variants.”

As the winter months approach, public health experts are urging vigilance. The emphasis on mask-wearing, particularly in crowded spaces, aims to protect the most vulnerable while also encouraging broader community solidarity in managing the ongoing challenges posed by Covid-19.