Taxi drivers and their passengers in Bolton are being asked to wear face coverings.
It comes as the borough's Covid-19 infection rate - already the highest in the country - continues to rise.
While it is a legal requirement to wear masks on public transport, taxis have been exempt from these rules. But, local health chiefs say it is good practice to keep faces covered while with someone from another household.
Taxi operators are being contacted by the council’s licensing team and asked to encourage customers booking a vehicle to wear a face covering.
The rate of new infections in Bolton has now reached 115.8 for every 100,000 in the borough and residents have already been told to avoid any public transport if possible and not to meet with anyone outside their own household, even outdoors.
The increase in cases has been described as 'sudden and extreme' by council bosses.
Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Environment Regulatory Services, Coun Hilary Fairclough, said: “It is really important that we all play our part to help reduce the rate of coronavirus in the borough.
“Wearing a face covering in a shared vehicle is a simple thing to do to protect yourself and others, and it can help reduce the risk of transmission.”
The council has also released the following tips in an effort to stem the rising tide of infections:
- Avoid crowded places
- Wear a face covering when required
- Keep two metres distance from others
- Wash hands with soap and water – often and for 20 seconds
- Avoid touching the eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
- Stay at home if you have symptoms – and get a test (book online or ring 119).
