The NHS has declared it is facing a “worst case scenario” this December after hospitalisations for flu surged by more than half in just one week. An average of 2,660 patients per day were in a hospital bed with flu last week — the highest ever for this time of year and up 55% up on last week. Health experts have urged the use of face masks in some circumstances to prevent the spread of infection. But when should you use one?

Sir Keir Starmer said on Thursday there were no plans to change guidance, which advises people to wear masks if they are suffering from symptoms of a respiratory illness to spread of particles containing viruses. He added: “There’s no difference in the guidance, so we’re not changing guidance on face masks. But the usual things about ventilation, washing hands

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