The World Health Organization said it was reviewing the country’s experience in using face shields as an additional layer of protection against COVID-19.
The Philippines is “one of the few countries advocating the use of face shields in addition to a mask” as protection against the virus, said WHO country representative Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe.
He said there is no sufficient evidence yet to show that the use of face shields has helped the country delay the spread of the highly transmissible Delta variant.
“It’s interesting that we have been able to sort of delay the speed by which the Delta variant is spreading, but we don’t know if the face shields are a contributory factor,” he said. “While we are understanding all of these issues, it’s best to look for evidence and make our decisions based on that.”
“The face shields are being used to reduce the likelihood of infection through the eyes and so that’s not actually an additional layer although it boosts the protection from poor wearing of mask practices,” he added.
The WHO official said a single face mask could protect people from contracting the virus provided that it is worn “properly and consistently.”
“You can wear 2 masks, you could wear 4 masks, but if you don’t wear it properly or consistently, it will not provide protection,” he said.
“You don’t need double masking. You don’t need added layers. What you need is diligence in following public health standards,” Abeyasinghe added.