According to an ordinance published in Diário da República: "Although the use of masks continues to be an important measure to prevent the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, especially in environments and in populations at higher risk, it is considered appropriate to cease the mandatory use of masks and visors in residential homes, as well as in continuous integrated care units of the National Network of Integrated Continuous Care", says the diploma, which enters into force today force.

The Government justifies this decision with "the evolution of the epidemiological situation of the covid-19 disease, scientific knowledge, effectiveness and the high vaccination coverage achieved in Portugal, the level of knowledge acquired by the population about public health measures, namely the use of a mask, respiratory etiquette, ventilation of spaces and physical distancing", which made it possible to reduce lethality and mortality, the incidence of the disease, the impact on health services and to resume economic and social activity.

According to the Government, Portugal is in line with other European countries, having already proceeded to eliminate most of the restrictive measures in response to the covid-19 disease pandemic.

On the day the diploma was approved by the Council of Ministers, the Ministry of Health indicated that the recommendation for the use of masks remains, mainly in closed environments or crowds, by vulnerable people, such as those with chronic diseases or in a situation of reduced immunity, with increased risk for covid-19.

The diploma that "Determines the cessation of the mandatory use of masks and visors for accessing or staying in certain places, within the scope of the covid-19 disease pandemic" was approved by the Council of Ministers on April 6, having been promulgated last Friday by the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, and countersigned on Monday by the Prime Minister, António Costa.