Queensland removes recommendation for indoor mask use

The Queensland premier has announced that face masks are no longer recommended for use indoors but remain mandatory in settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities, public transport and on planes.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk made the announcement today, adding that vulnerable Queenslanders should continue to wear masks in crowded places to protect themselves from COVID-19.

"I've been advised that as we come off the third wave of Omicron and reported cases and hospitalisations continue to reduce, the recommendations for wearing masks indoors now changes," she said.

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The changes take effect from today.

The premier said at the peak of the latest wave in July, the state had over 2500 people off work or isolating with COVID-19 or the flu, a figure that's now reduced to 488.

There are currently 321 people in hospital with COVID-19 and eight people have died from the virus in the last 24 hours.

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The premier said those who prefer to wear masks indoors can continue to do so.

"Don't forget it's still your choice whether you wear one or not," she said.

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