Portugal's parliament on Friday passed a bill which imposed the mandatory use of a mask on the street and public spaces in an effort to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

The order was passed a day after authorities reported 3,270 new coronavirus cases, the highest single-day increase since the beginning of the pandemic. It will be in effect for at least 70 days.

The use of a mask is compulsory for all people "over ten years old to access, circulate or stay in public spaces and roads whenever the physical distance recommended by health authorities are impossible", according to the bill.

The obligation between "people from the same household, when they are not in the proximity of third parties" can be waived or by means of a "medical certificate" that the clinical condition or cognitive impairment does not allow the use of masks.

It is also not mandatory to wear a mask when "it is incompatible with the nature of the activities that people are carrying out."

Those who violate the order face fines of between 100 euros ($118) and 500 euros ($590). Other items such as visors will not be acceptable as substitutes.

The order will be reassessed following the expiry of the mandated period with a renewal a possibility.

Some residents in the capital Lisbon, however, expressed doubt that all people will follow the rule. Some argued that wearing masks inside public spaces and shops was sufficient.

Portugal has so far reported more than 109,000 confirmed cases and more than 2,200 deaths since the beginning of the pandemic.

(With input from agencies)