• Wearing a face mask is one of the best ways to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.
• It is important to wear the right kind of mask, ensuring it fits properly and covers your nose and mouth.
• Disposable masks should be discarded after each use and reusable masks should be cleaned regularly.
The Benefits of Wearing a Face Mask
Wearing a face mask can help protect you and those around you from the spread of COVID-19. It acts as an additional barrier that helps reduce the spread of droplets through coughing, sneezing, or speaking. This helps prevent those droplets from entering your body or that of someone else nearby.
Types of Masks
There are two main types of face masks: disposable and reusable. Disposable masks are intended for single use only and should be discarded after each use in accordance with local regulations. Reusable masks should be washed regularly according to manufacturer instructions, usually in hot water with detergent or soap, before being worn again.
Correct Fit
For any type of face mask to work effectively it must fit properly on your face covering both your nose and mouth securely without leaving any gaps between the fabric and skin. If there are gaps then air will flow in which could potentially bring particles into contact with your mucous membranes (mouth, nose).
Additional Precautions
In addition to wearing a face mask it is also important to practice physical distancing (maintaining at least 6 feet/ 2 metres distance between yourself and others), avoiding crowded places, washing hands regularly with soap for at least 20 seconds, using hand sanitiser when handwashing is not possible, cleaning frequently touched surfaces daily etc…
Conclusion
Face masks provide an additional layer of protection against transmission of COVID-19 when used correctly in combination with other preventive measures such as physical distancing, frequent handwashing etc… To ensure optimal protection it is essential to choose the correct type and size of mask for the best fit over your nose & mouth as well as disposing/ cleaning them according to manufacturer instructions.