The Czech government will mandate the wearing of face masks again from 1 September in certain environments in a bid to curb further spread of the virus.

Health Minister Adam Vojtech said on Monday the decision was advised by a projected increase in activity and social interaction starting next month.

The country was among the first in Europe to order people to wear face masks in most public places, but gradually lifted the requirement after seeing a decline in infections.

"We consider this to be a preventative measure given that we are probably facing a complicated autumn, especially after Sept 1 when there will be high social interaction," Reuters quotes Vojtech.

Czech schools are scheduled to reopen on 1 September after the summer vacation.

According to the Reuters report, the new rules will require people to wear face masks in shops, common areas of schools and in public buildings.

By Monday, Czech Republic had reported 20,098 COVID-19 infections and 399 deaths. According to figures from the U.S.-based Johns Hopkins University.