To mask or not to mask?
A few months ago, when the Coronavirus just started, public health officials have been unyielding in their stance that healthy people should not wear masks until the virus started to spread at a rapid race. With the amount of people being affected by others with no apparent symptoms, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that everyone wear nonmedical face coverings in public settings.
Although wearing a mask while in public might decrease the chance of catching the virus, it is important that masks should not replace social distancing and hand washing. Which in my opinion are best ways to flatten the curve.
While our leaders are advocating for mask now, there is quite a shortage around the world and masks are just impossible to find. Our healthcare heroes can’t even have medical supplies readily available to the point that CDC had encouraged them to use bandanas; meaning you probably have to make one yourself if you need it. This is why Presiii.com pledges to give over 100 in free masks to the frontliners as a token of love.
In addition to a fabric face mask in public, simple infection control measures such as proper cough/ sneeze etiquette, social distancing, good old hand washing are very effective and important for prevention. When you cover your face pretty thoroughly from your mouth to your nose, you are preventing large aerosol droplets coming out or going in.
The highest-quality masks — called N95 respirator masks should be reserved for emergency responders who are regularly exposed to high viral loads from infected patients. If the N95 is not available alternative such as KN95, NIOSK 95 in case the N95 isn’t available. If you wear an N95 or KN95, both elastics must be worn to ensure secure fit and it defeats the purpose if you’re not wearing the elastics right.
Surgical masks are used by emergency responders as well as the public, preventing about 95% of virus, 80% of bacteria, and dust pollen. Do not pull the mask down to expose your nose; it defeats the purpose of it.
Fabric masks: Masks can prevent bacteria, pollen and dust from 0-50%. That is why it’s important to add filler into your masks for extra protections. Make sure to wash and dry it over night. If, a mask gets wet while you are wearing it, it’s less effective. And if you decide to start wearing a mask, you should know that it takes some getting used to. A mask can be hot and uncomfortable and fog your glasses if you wear them.
It is not required to wear a mask while in your car, at home or walking alone. If you are traveling and in close approximation to people it is necessary.
