WHY DO WE NEED A FACE MASK ?
Face mask is one of the strategies of suppressing the transmission of SARS-CoV2 droplet Infection as virus spreads from person to person . Its intention is preventing the wearer transmitting infection to others and to offer protection to the wearer against infection .
Three W’s to stop the transmission of COVID-19:” wearing a mask, washing your hands, and watching your distance.

WHAT ARE THE TYPE OF FACE MASKS ?
- MEDICAL MASKS (SURGICAL MASKS): These are made from a minimum of three layers of synthetic nonwoven materials.
- RESPIRATORS: Also known as Filtering Facepiece Respirators – (FFP) and available at different performance levels such as FFP2, FFP3, N95, N99. These are specifically designed for healthcare workers who provide care to COVID-19 patients in settings and areas where aerosol generating procedures are undertaken.
- NON MEDICAL MASKS : Also known as fabric masks, home-made masks, DIY masks .These act as a barrier to prevent the spread of the virus from the wearer to others.

WHO SHOULD WEAR MEDICAL MASKS ?
WHO recommends the following groups use medical masks.
- Health workers
- Anyone with symptoms suggestive of COVID-19, including people with mild symptoms
- People caring for suspect or confirmed cases of COVID-19 outside of health facilities
- Settings where social distancing in not possible and chances of high infection , it is recommended to use medical mask in two groups :
1.People aged ≥60 years 2. People with underlying comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes mellitus, chronic lung disease, cancer, cerebrovascular disease, immunosuppression
HOW TO PUT ON A MEDICAL FACE MASK ?
- Before touching the mask, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water
- Inspect the mask for tears or holes; do not use a mask that has previously been worn or is damaged.
- Verify which side is the top – this is usually where the metal strip is
- Then, identify the inside of the mask, which is usually the white side.
- Place the mask on your face covering your nose, mouth and chin, making sure that there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
- Pinch the metal strip so it moulds to the shape of your nose.
- Remember, do not touch the front of the mask while using it to avoid contamination; if you accidentally touch it, clean your hands
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HOW TO TAKE OFF A MEDICAL FACE MASK ?
- Before touching the mask, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water
- Remove the straps from behind the head or ears, without touching the front of the mask.
- As you remove the mask, lean forward and pull the mask away from your face.
- Medical masks are for single use only; discard the mask immediately, preferably into a closed bin.
- Clean your hands after touching the mask.
- Be aware of the condition of the mask; replace it if it gets soiled or damp
WHO SHOULD YOU USE A NON MEDICAL MASK ?
According to WHO , governments should encourage the use of face masks for people in the general public where physical distancing of at least 1 metre is not possible – such as, on public transport, in shops or in other confined or crowded environments.
Remember : Masks on their own will not protect you from COVID-19. People should also clean their hands frequently and maintain a distance of at least 1 metre from others.
WHAT TYPE OF NON MEDICAL FABRIC MASK PREFERRED ?
Preferable types of fabrics, number of layers and the composition of a non-medical, fabric mask:
- an inner layer of absorbent material such as cotton
- a middle layer of non-woven material such as polypropylene
- an outer layer of non-absorbent material, such as polyester or polyester blend
Make sure to purchase a mask that lets you breathe while talking and walking briskly.


HOW TO PUT ON AND TAKE OFF YOUR NON MEDICAL FABRIC FACE MASK ?
- Place your mask over your mouth and nose.
- Tie it behind your head or use ear loops and make sure it’s snug.
- Don’t touch your mask while wearing it.
- If you accidentally touch your mask, wash or sanitize your hands.
- Remove the mask by untying it or lifting off the ear loops without touching the front of the mask or your face.
- Wash your hands immediately after removing your mask.
- Regularly wash your mask with soap and water in the washing machine. It’s fine to launder it with other clothes.
Few face mask precautions:
- Don’t put masks on anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious or otherwise unable to remove the mask without help.
- Don’t put masks on children under 2 years of age.
- Don’t use face masks as a substitute for social distancing.
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HOW TO CLEAN YOUR FABRIC FACE MASK ?
Washing machine
- You can include your face covering with your regular laundry.
- Use regular laundry detergent and the warmest appropriate water setting for the cloth used to make the face covering.
Washing by hand
- Prepare a bleach solution by mixing:
- 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) household bleach per gallon of room temperature water or
- 4 teaspoons household bleach per quart of room temperature water
HOW TO DRY YOUR FABRIC FACE MASK ?
Dryer
- Use the highest heat setting and leave in the dryer until completely dry.
Air dry
- Lay flat and allow to completely dry. If possible, place the cloth face covering in direct sunlight.


HOW TO MAKE A NON MEDICAL FABRIC FACE MASK ?
A tighter fitting around the face is probably better face mask, but CDC suggests any covering including a bandana, is better than none.
One US study investigated that vacuum cleaner bags, heavyweight “quilter’s cotton” or multiple layers of material ,best removed particles of 0.3-1.0 microns in diameter. Scarves and bandana material were less effective, but still captured a fraction of particles.



CONCLUSION
- Three W’s to stop the transmission of COVID-19:” wearing a mask, washing your hands, and watching your distance.
- Masks on their own will not protect you from COVID-19. People should also clean their hands frequently and maintain a distance of at least 1 metre from others.
Also Read :
https://www.thedoctips.com/pulse-oximeter-its-use-and-importance-in-covid-19/
https://www.thedoctips.com/another-viral-outbreak-coming-soon-double-trouble/
https://www.thedoctips.com/covid-19-medicine-favipiravir-end-of-corona/