Masks are no longer mandatory in transport and pharmacies, but there are exceptions New measures announced after the Council of Ministers. The Serra da Estrela is in distress throughout the year.

The government announced this Thursday the abolition of masks in public passenger transport, including aircraft, as well as in taxis and TVDE.

“Given the continuation of favorable evolution, the controlled trend in the use of medical services, and the available scientific information, [o Conselho de Ministros] considered it appropriate to put an end to the mandatory use of masks or shields in public passenger transport, as well as in taxis and TVDE,” said Marta Temido.

Among the new measures introduced by Mariana Vieira da Silva are the extension of the high alert in Portugal due to Covid-19 until September 30, as well as the declaration of a state of emergency in the Serra de Estrela Natural Park at the time of the year after the devastating fires that raged in this area in recent weeks.

This measure, explained Mariana Vieira da Silva, will cover not only the municipalities that are part of the Serra da Estrela Natural Park, but also all municipalities with a burnt area of ​​more than 4,500 hectares, or 10% of the area. “This is in line with municipalities with special support measures during firefighting,” explained the presidency minister.

Marta Temido explained that it is also planned to cancel mandatory masks and visors in pharmacies. The Minister of Health specified that protective equipment remains “in frequent health care facilities” and “in residential homes for the elderly and similar services.”

“A mandatory waiver does not change the fact that a self-assessment is not carried out,” recalled Marta Temido, noting that even in situations where this is not mandatory, wearing a mask may be required.