Many reports are currently being broadcasted on TV where reporters have wrapped their microphones in plastic bags or foils. In this case, the main aim is to minimise the possible risk of infection between the people involved and to provide the best possible protection for everyone.
Although we are not virologists and can only give recommendations, it can be clearly stated that the use of plastic bags or foils can reduce the risk of infection. Saliva is emitted when speaking and gets on the microphone grille or pop/wind shield of reporters or interview partners.
Therefore, in addition to pop or wind shields, a plastic bag or foil can be used for protection, but at the same time it can affect the sound quality. When using plastic bags or foils, it is important to make sure that they are carefully cleaned or thoroughly wiped with a disinfectant agent after each speaker, or at best replaced. When changing the plastic bag or foil it is of course absolutely necessary to follow the known hygienic rules and recommendations. In any case, a mouth and nose protection and disposable gloves should be worn. The recommendations of the Robert Koch Institute should also be followed.
The selected plastic bag or foil should not be too thick and should be pulled loosely over the microphone. A standard household rubbish bag can be used for example. However, if the foil is too loose, unwanted noises can occur during live reporting in windy weather conditions. It is therefore important to make sure that the foil is firmly placed during recording and cannot be moved. To minimise the risk of infection, we recommend that you keep the microphone underneath the plastic bag or foil.