Wearing a mask has become a part of our daily lives and critical as one of the ways to prevent the spread of Covid-19. It is also now prohibited to be in public without a mask.
When it comes to wearing a mask, there are several common mistakes that many people make, which can undermine the whole point of wearing a mask.
Here are five tips to ensure that you get maximum protection:
•Get the fit right. The mask should sit on the bridge of your nose (not balanced on the tip). It should cover your nose, mouth and extend over your chin. The mask should fit snugly, without billowing out at the sides or leaving obvious gaps. Do not leave your nose sticking out, as you will still be able to inhale (and exhale) infectious droplets.
•Wash your hands before putting your mask on and again before taking it off. Use soap and wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. This prevents your hands from contami- nating your mask, and vice-versa.
•Do not touch your mask while wearing it. When removing it, use the loops to take it off, rather than handle the fabric or the front of the mask.
•Do not pull your mask down to rest on your chin or around your neck (or up onto your forehead). You’re obviously not protected while it is in this position and it may become contaminated.
•Wash your mask frequently with hot water and detergent and allow it to dry completely. Do not wear it when wet. Also, do not wear the same mask for long periods or repeat occasions without washing it thoroughly in between, and always store it in a clean, dry place.
•Finally, remember that while wearing a mask correctly can help to prevent the spread of coronavirus, it’s not a failsafe. It is still possible to become infected. To stay safe, avoid going out unnecessarily and try to keep a distance of at least two metres between yourself and others. And remember to get into the habit of washing your hands with soap regularly and well, as this is an important way of preventing the spread of disease.
