In which areas does the WHO recommend that healthcare workers should always wear masks?

The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the importance of wearing masks in areas where the virus is spreading freely. This recommendation is grounded in the goal of minimizing the risk of transmission of infectious diseases, particularly respiratory viruses like COVID-19. In high transmission areas, masks serve as a critical barrier to protect both healthcare workers and patients, reducing the likelihood of spreading the virus through respiratory droplets.

In contrast to the correct answer, wearing masks in areas with strict health protocols may involve additional measures, which can sometimes mitigate the risk without universal masking. Wearing masks only during medical procedures limits their protective use to specific situations rather than maintaining a consistent standard in high-risk environments. While public areas are important, the recommendation to wear masks universally in all public areas may not be as clearly defined, as the focus is primarily on regions experiencing active viral transmission. Thus, adhering to the recommendation to mask in areas with high transmission rates is essential for safeguarding public health and preventing outbreaks.