You can help make masks in Ladysmith to fight Covid-19
A fabric mask can be worn by a person who is asymptomatic, but has the virus and can be infectious to another person
A nationwide call has been made for face masks to be worn, especially when leaving your home. However, the availability of traditional surgical face masks is currently very limited.
The N95 mask is supposed to only be used by healthcare professionals, says a local doctor.
The easy form of protection is masks made from material, preferably cotton.
In light of the shortage, the Islamic Medical Association (IMA) of South Africa has launched a nationwide project and they are looking for volunteers to sow masks for them. The material for the masks will be provided and the masks will be distributed to the community at no charge. Contributions to the IMA in this regard will be greatly appreciated and all are welcome to help with the sowing process.
The local branch of the IMA is also involved in this project. They are looking for volunteers to help make as many masks as possible. All instructions and materials will be delivered to your home and collected once you have completed your batch. Volunteers must have their own sewing machine, scissors and cotton. Basic knowledge of sewing is required.
Also read: How to protect yourself and others from catching Covid-19
The IMA says that the cost to make each mask is approximately R10 and they appeal for sponsorship to purchase raw materials.
A fabric mask can be worn by a person who is asymptomatic, but has the virus and can be infectious to another person. Dr Arthi Bahadoor explains it in an easy way, “My mask is to protect you from me, and your mask protects me from you.”
When Dr Bahadoor was studying in China, she saw that the Asian community used masks especially during winter for protection from smog, as this caused respiratory illnesses. The second reason they used masks was that if a person had the flu, they still went to work but were not infectious to others around them.
For more information or if you are keen to join the initiative, you can WhatsApp the following people: Sister Tasneem Amla on 0837917160, Dr Bahadoor on 0769259078, Mr Sardiwalla on 0832316944 and Dr Mulla on 0837868361
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