The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a sweeping order requiring the use of face masks on nearly all forms of public transportation from Monday, Reuters reported.

The order, which takes effect at 11:59pm EST on Monday, requires face masks to be worn by all travellers on airplanes, ships, trains, subways, buses, taxis, and ride-shares and at transportation hubs like airports, bus or ferry terminals, train and subway stations and seaports.

While airlines and most transit modes already require masks, the CDC order will make not wearing a mask a violation of federal law that could make it easier for flight attendants and others to enforce.