Boy fossicked in bin for masks

People seen taking used masks from public rubbish bins before boarding a train has sparked concerns among health leaders.

Research has shown the Covid-19 virus can survive on disposable masks for up to seven days meaning people re-using masks were at risk of catching the virus and other transmissible illnesses.

Takanini resident Graeme Marshall told the Herald he had just disembarked a train at Te Mahia station in South Auckland when he saw it happen. He and his wife took off their masks and placed them in a rubbish bin and when he looked back he saw a teenager fossicking in the bin. Marshall said the boy pulled out the masks and took them back to a woman and a group of three or four younger children which appeared to be his family — some of whom were already wearing masks. An Auckland Regional Public Health Service spokeswoman said they had not heard of it happening but urged people not to retrieve used masks or share masks. “Aside from any risk of Covid-19 from a used mask, there is also the risk of potential exposure to other viral or bacterial diseases.”

She said it was important people remember that any face covering was acceptable on public transport including a bandanna or scarf, all of which could be washed.