Promote use of masks to curb disease spread

I read about the Zika case in Singapore with concern ("Zika case: Public urged to remain vigilant"; May 21).

What worries me is that people in Singapore do not have the habit of putting on a mask when they are unwell.

Perhaps they feel they might be discriminated against, with the mask on. And the culture here seems to be that people tend to give people with masks on a wide berth.

To change this culture, I suggest that the health authorities run a campaign to educate the public on the importance of wearing masks to prevent the spread of diseases.

Perhaps, the prevalence of mask use in places such as Japan could be highlighted. Free masks could also be given out on trains and buses for those who are unwell to don.

Adrian Ho Kok Wai