NHS Scotland Downgrades Covid-19 Respiratory Protection

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On 3 August 2026, NHS Scotland updated its Infection Prevention and Control guidance, which has also been adopted by NHS Wales. Of particular concern is the decision to downgrade the respiratory protection recommended for Covid-19, despite the evidence reviewed for the guidance including research supporting the effectiveness of respirators and airborne protection against SARS-CoV-2.

Yanto Evans discusses the issues relating to this non-evidence based change in the video below.

Read more about the URGENT changes to infection prevention and control guidelines SHH-UK is calling for by clicking here.

Find out more about the effectiveness of masks versus respirators for airborne infections via the links below:

Masks 101: Surgical Masks vs Respirators

Masks vs Respirators: Protecting Against Airborne Covid

Medical masks ≠ PPE – why respirators are needed

Expert RPE Guidance: Surgical Masks Aren’t Legally “PPE”

The role of masks in preventing respiratory infections in healthcare settings

Australian College for Infection Prevention and Control Endorses PFR Respirators Over Surgical Masks

Masks and respirators: Results of a state of the art review

Universal respirators in healthcare: expert call to WHO

How Covid and Long Covid Prevention Guidance Has Changed

NHS England IPC: Concerns Raised About Covid Safety in 2022

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