When COVID-19 reached our shores, Times of Malta was among the first to urge the public to heed the health authorities’ advice. When the numbers of infected people started rising and there was pressure on the health system, we endorsed the partial lockdown, because science showed it was the best way to keep the situation under control. Since the vaccines arrived in Malta, we have been relentlessly urging the public to get jabbed because, so far, they have proven effective against COVID-19. For the past 20 months, we have urged the public to be vigilant and not let their guard down altogether because COVID is here to stay. But we cannot support the latest draconian measure, urging the public to wear masks outdoors at all times, because there is simply no scientific justification to do so. From Saturday, anyone over the age of three is required to wear a mask when leaving their home – even if they are walking alone. Failing to do that could land you a €100 fine. Malta is the only EU state adopting such a strict measure outdoors. Health Minister Chris Fearne has rightly warned that Malta must prepare for the Omicron variant during the busy Christmas period. But such preparation...