When And How To Use Masks To Stay Protected From Coronavirus
Updated On Apr 19, 2021
A few weeks ago, it may have seemed silly to wear a face mask when visiting the nearest grocery store. But with cases of novel coronavirus increasing day by day across the globe, there is new thinking among people related to the benefits of using a mask in slowing down the spread.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends using a mask in a few cases and suggests that it is not for anyone and everyone. Also, as the supply of face masks is low, people are advised not to waste them.
Simply put, if you are not suffering from the symptoms of coronavirus, then you must leave the supply of face masks to healthcare workers who are risking their lives every day they go to work.
WHO recommends the use of mask only in a few cases. Now let us read them below to get enlightened about when to use a mask, how to use it, and how to discard it properly.
When to use a mask to protect against coronavirus?
As supplies are tight for surgical masks, we need to be very mindful in using them. Read the conditions below in which wearing a mask is recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO):
You may also like to read Mild, Moderate and Severe Symptoms of the Novel Coronavirus
-
If you have cough, fever, and are facing difficulty in breathing, then you should wear a mask and seek medical assistance.
-
Even if you are not suffering from any of the symptoms above, wear a mask when you go out of your house due to medical or other essential needs.
-
In case you do not have these symptoms, then there is no need to wear these masks at home.
-
But, in case you are healthy and are looking after someone who is or may be affected by the new coronavirus, then you must wear a mask whenever you are in the same room with that person.
How To Wear A Masks To Stay Protected From Coronavirus
If you are using a mask, then you must know how to use it as well as dispose of it so that you don’t spread the virus to others surrounding you.
-
Before wearing a mask, clean your hands with soap and water for around 20 seconds. In case soap and water are not available, then use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with at least 60% of alcohol content.
-
Ensure that the mask covers your nose and mouth. Place it in such a way that there is no gap between your face and the mask.
-
Try not to touch the mask while wearing it. But if you do, clean your hands as directed in the first point.
-
Do not re-use single-use masks. Also, dispose of the mask as soon as possible if it becomes damp.
How To Discard A Used Mask To Protect Yourself & Others?
Remember masks should be treated as medical waste. Safe disposal of face masks is important to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus. So, whenever you use a mask, use it and discard it properly.
Learn how to remove the used mask and discard it:
- Timely dispose of the used mask. Do not wait to discard it or keep it on any surface.
- Do not touch the front of the mask. Remove it gently from behind.
- Put it in a plastic bag (use plastic which is permitted) or a zip lock bag and seal it tightly.
- Throw it immediately in a covered bin.
Random studies were looking at how the use of face mask could protect the wearer, but the experts seem to be arguing that it may prevent infected people who do not show any symptoms from spreading it to others.
Another thing to understand that using face masks is certainly not an iron-clad guarantee that you won’t get sick. And hence, wearing a mask alone is not enough. So, instead of solely relying on masks, make sure you maintain good hygiene, stay home and keep distance as well. Otherwise, wearing a mask would do nothing but give ‘a false sense of security.
Click to learn about social distancing guidelines.
To ensure taking total precautions against nCoV infection, you must keep yourself updated with the latest measures to fight against the pandemic.
Also Read
Ways To Spend Your Free Time During Coronavirus Lockdown
IRDAI Directs Health Insurers to Decide COVID-19 Claims within Two Hours
