With the latest coronavirus outbreak in Adelaide prompting an immediate reaction around the country, the question of whether masks should be worn in South Australia is being raised again.

Victoria brought in mandatory mask wearing when it was hit by a devastating second wave earlier this year. Its rule has remained in place despite the state going weeks without a case.

So, is South Australia following suit in the face of the cluster in north Adelaide, and what do the experts say?

Does everyone in South Australia have to wear masks?

No. Not everyone at least.

It's only been a day since this cluster was identified and the South Australian Government isn't calling for widespread mask use just yet.

What is the SA Government saying about masks?

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It wants people to wear them at particular times.

Premier Steven Marshall said during a press conference on Monday the Government was "advising" people to wear masks in situations where they could not guarantee physical distance.

Queensland Chief Health Officer Jeannette Young used similar language when there was a cluster in South-East Queensland in August.

Mr Marshall used riding public transport as an example of a situation in which South Australians should wear masks, but he said at this point that was just advice.

He drew a distinction between advice and restrictions.

So who MUST wear masks in South Australia?

People in specific industries.

Masks are mandatory for "personal care activities", which include services at places like nail salons, tattoo parlours and hairdressers.

Both the client and the people working at the venue have to wear masks.

The Premier also says masks are mandatory in aged care facilities "where physical distancing can't be maintained".

What do experts say about face masks?

The advice on face masks has changed over the course of the coronavirus pandemic as our understanding of the virus has evolved.

Face masks help to contain respiratory droplets when people cough, sneeze, or talk, reducing the likelihood of an infected person — whether or not they have symptoms — spreading the virus.

Masks also help to protect people from getting infected by reducing their chances of inhaling respiratory droplets.

When a face mask is worn correctly, it should cover your mouth, nose and chin, and be clean and well fitted.

Health authorities, including the World Health Organization, say masks are a key measure to suppress COVID-19 transmission and save lives.

Victoria is far from the only place where face masks have been made compulsory, with numerous other countries and cities around the world where community transmission is high instituting mask policies.

But masks are just one tool in fighting the spread of coronavirus. Measures such as physical distancing, hand washing, and avoiding crowded, closed spaces are also essential to reducing COVID-19 transmission.