The COVID-19 battle is still on. So, it’s essential that everyone follows the basic rule to avoid further transmission of this virus, which has claimed millions of lives around the world.Once the novel coronavirus was identified, the world has been collaborating to find a possible vaccine.Milestones have been achieved and we currently have three different vaccines, but the world still has to wait on widespread distribution.
Scientists have worked hard to create the three vaccines we now have availablebut it is essential that people follow basic safety rules to avoid infection and prevent its transmission.
Face masks have emerged as one of the most important tools to ensure safety outside of one’s home environment. Constant and continued use of 70% or more alcohol based hand-sanitizers, washing hands frequently with soap,and face masks are vital including continued social distancingto stay safe. With lockdown norms easing worldwide, people have started stepping out of their homes. In this scenario, maintaining social distancing and wearing face masks provide an effective shield against the Coronavirus.
Important things to know about face masks:
- Face masks do not provide complete protection against the virus. That being said, it is an essential protective shield to break the virus transmission chain.
- Face masks must be worn by healthy individuals, asymptomatic individuals as well as by those showing symptoms. Face masks prevent droplets from the mouth or nose reaching other individuals.
- Asymptomatic individuals are infected with the COVID-19 virus, but show no visible symptoms. Therefore, wearing face masks is important for everyone, whether they have symptoms or not.
Tips to wearing face masks right:
- Washing or sanitizing hands before putting on and after taking off your face maskis essential.
- Face masks must be worncovering both the mouth and the nose.
- Mask should be tied behind the head or secured using ear loops so that it fits perfectly.
- If hands accidently touch the front of the mask, hands should be sanitized or washed immediately.
- When the mask becomes wet or dirty, it must be changed immediately.
- Wearing washable, reusableface masks is absolutely fine so long as the mask is frequently washed. However, healthcare professionals and those in constant contact with patients must wear specialized N95 masks while delivering services. In fact, wearing PPE kit is essential for them.
Face masks are easily available online for sale.