Face masks must be worn by all outpatients and visitors in hospitals across England, the government has announced.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock, leading the government's daily briefing, said the new guidelines will help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in England's hospitals.
All outpatients and hospital visitors will have to wear face coverings, and from June 15, all hospital staff will have to wear specified masks, known as Type 1 and 2 masks.
Leading the government's daily briefing on Friday, Mr Hancock said: "As the NHS re-opens across the country, it's critically important to stop the spread amongst staff, patients and visitors too.
"So, today we are setting out that all hospital visitors and outpatients will need to wear face coverings.
"One of the things that we've learned is that those in hospital, those who are working in hospital are more likely to catch coronavirus whether they work in a clinical setting or not.
"And so to offer even great protection, we are also providing new guidance for NHS staff in England which will come into force on the 15th of June, and all hospital staff will be required to wear Type 1 or 2 surgical masks.
"This will cover all staff working in hospital. It will apply at all times - not just when they are doing life-saving work on the frontline - it will apply in all areas except those designated as Covid-secure workplaces.
"And of course where the PPE guidance advises more stringent protection, that remains in place.
"We're upgrading this guidance to make sure that even as the virus comes under control, and as we saw the falling incidents across the country, our hospitals are a place of care and of safety."
It will be compulsory for people to cover their faces when they travel on buses and trains from June 15.
Grant Shapps told Thursday's Downing Street briefing the evidence suggests 'wearing face masks offers some, all be it limited, protection against the virus'.
Currently passengers are advised to wear a face covering but it's not mandatory.
