Heathrow Airport: What is an FFP2 mask and which countries do you need them in?

Nov 19, 2023

There are different requirements in each country you travel to

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Since the coronavirus pandemic, there have been a number of rules put in place across the world from travelling abroad to leaving your house. Requirements have changed over the last couple of years to try and combat the spread of Covid-19 with some countries requiring people to wear specific types of masks.

There are a number of different types of masks and respirators which offer different levels of protection such as a cloth mask, a procedure mask or a KN95 respirator. But what is an FFP2 mask and why do some countries require it?

FFP stands for 'filtering face piece'. An FFP2 is the middle grade for mask efficiency which filters a higher percentage of all aerosols, including airborne viruses. The FFP2 masks are the equivalent to N95 masks which are frequently used in European countries.

READ MORE: Travel rules for Spain and France ahead of Easter Holidays

Before you jump onto a flight from Heathrow or Luton, make sure you know which countries require use of an FFP2 mask - or you may be denied boarding on your flight.

Italy have a number of rules and requirements in place for public spaces and services. Anyone above the age of five must wear a mask indoors. An FFP2 mask is compulsory on public transport, at indoor or outdoor public events, in theatres, concert halls, cinemas and live music clubs and for sporting events until April 30.

Masks will only need to worn outdoors if there are large gatherings such as sporting events. As of April 1, a surgical mask is sufficient for work environments.

If you test positive while in Greece, you must quarantine for five days from the date of testing positive and as long as you aren't showing any symptoms after five days, you may leave. However, visitors leaving quarantine are legally required to wear an FFP2 / N95 mask, or double masks (at least one of which should be surgical), in all public indoor and outdoor spaces for at least five days after the end of the quarantine period.

Masks are also mandatory in all indoor public spaces in Greece. Double masks or an FFP2 / N95 mask must be worn in certain areas including supermarkets, pharmacies and on public transport.

While rules differ from each region you are in, masks are compulsory for all enclosed spaces and indoor areas. Not just any mask can be worn though, as FFP2 face masks are compulsory in all enclosed spaces including on public transport and inside taxis. FFP2 masks should also be worn in shops, restaurants and physical services.

Other rules are required to enter the county. Foreign Office Travel advice states: "All travellers must show either proof of full vaccination, recovery from COVID-19 in the past 180 days or a negative test to enter Austria. PCR test results are valid for 72 hours from the time of sampling; Antigen test results are valid for 24 hours. Lateral flow self-tests are not accepted."

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