Now that students have returned to campus, masks have become more commonplace in crowded places such as large lecture theaters. The Government’s official stance on face coverings at Alert Level One is that they are mandatory on public transport and domestic flights. It’s also recommended that you wear a face covering in situations where you are unable to socially distance, such as in supermarkets or crowds. Craccum asked five students last week whether they’ll be wearing masks on campus.
Jamie, 18, Politics & Sociology
“[I won’t wear one] below level 2. [Wearing a mask] is hot and bothers me. I will wear one at Alert Level Two and above for some protection.”
Sam, 20, Arts & Global Studies
“No, the majority of people around campus are not wearing masks, it almost feels like a minority to wear masks. There are so many people flowing in and out of the lecture theatres, that with barely anyone wearing masks it doesn’t feel like you’re actually contributing to anything or stopping the spread.”
“Seeing others wearing masks does give a sense of security, even just in passing. It also makes me feel more inclined to wear a mask myself.”
Amy, 21, Arts
“I will follow the University and the Government’s guidelines for COVID-19. I’m not a scientist or a COVID expert so I’m not in the best position to decide whether or not I should be wearing a mask on campus.”
“If wearing a mask, and others wearing a mask, is the best thing to do to stop the spread of COVID and is recommended by the government, then it will definitely make me feel safer. I know there has been debates about whether the COVID messaging has been clear to everyone, but for me it’s been really clear and I’ve seen the reasoning behind it, and I will continue to follow the guidelines as best as I can.”
John, 20, Media, Film and Television and Communications
“I wear a mask when I’m in big classes like lectures. Wearing a mask all day is a bit suffocating but it’s still safer to wear a mask when there’s a lot of people around.”
Kendra, 18, Law and Commerce
“I wear a mask when I’m expecting big crowds or will be coming in close contact with people, for example in lecture theatres where it’s not possible to socially distance. But if I’m just going to a tutorial or meeting a small group of people, I don’t wear a mask.”
“The thing that would make me feel the safest on campus is if anyone with COVID symptoms stays home and gets a test. Wearing a mask can help stop the spread, but as far as I understand isolating when you are sick is the best way to stop the spread.”
For official information and resources regarding COVID-19, visit the Unite Against COVID-19 website.