West Sussex health teams warn residents not to wear plastic visors without fabric face coverings
It comes as Trading Standards found misleading adverts online
People in West Sussex are being told not to wear a plastic visor on its own without a fabric face covering.
The county's Public Health and Trading Standards has put out a warning to residents, saying plastic visors on their own are not enough to limit the spread of COVID-19.
It comes as Trading Standards officers found some sellers in the area were advertising the visors using images of people without a face covering.
The service has said the misleading adverts give the impression that people will help protect transmission to others with just a visor when this is not the case.
They are working to make sure companies advertise these products legally and in line with official guidance.
Peter Aston, West Sussex Trading Standards team manager, said:
"The Government guidance is clear that wearing a face visor in isolation does not count as a face covering under the coronavirus legislation.
"They work well when used with a fabric face covering but are not at all effective on their own.
"We are identifying West Sussex sellers of visors and making sure that any adverts, especially those on online platforms, don't mislead the public by, for example showing a person wearing a visor without wearing a fabric face covering as well."
Tony Hill, Interim Director of Public Health for West Sussex County Council, added:
"West Sussex is currently in tier two, high alert.
"Restaurants and other businesses have been able to re-open under certain restrictions, so it is important that everyone takes the necessary precautions to protect themselves and those around them from COVID-19.
"A face visor or shield may be worn in addition to a face covering but not instead of one.
"This is because face visors or shields do not adequately cover the nose and mouth.
"Please also continue to wash your hands regularly, and maintain space with other people.
"Remember: hands, face, space to help keep West Sussex safe.
"If you develop COVID-19 symptoms please self-isolate immediately and arrange to have a test."
Residents can report unfair trading practises to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice on 08082231133 or online.