Which Face Mask is Right for You?

Face masks come in numerous shapes, sizes, and types. These variations in face masks type provide different grades of protection. The N95 respirators provide the best protection against the Coronavirus infection, next is the surgical grade masks.  But these face masks are pricey and not readily available and are unbearable to have for a long time. Hence in countries where putting on of face masks have been made mandatory, it has been advised that such high-grade masks should be kept for frontline health workers or those whose health is highly at risk. The verification on the shielding merit cloth coverings or single-use paper masks is unclear, however, not using any type at all poses even greater risks because face masks still assist in reducing transmission of the Coronavirus.   An investigation by experts included the use of homemade cloth face masks.

The confirmation of the use of any mask use, besides surgical masks, is not yet concluded since it seems to be beneficial in some ways, however, the precise specification to measure which masks are more functional considering the level to which the wearer and those around them are shielded from the virus is still being analyzed.  Health experts advise on the use of a firmly fitting face mask through the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend any covering.

Research in the United States examined which easily available material worked best in preventing specks with the width measurement of 0.3-1.0 microns which is the model size of viruses; and it was finally concluded that the best choices were:   thick quilted cotton, multiple layers of material and vacuum cleaner bags. Bandana and scarf material still caught a few specks but were regarded as less functional. Its functionality rating was regarded below average therefore not suitable for those in critical condition or health workers.

Source: Pexel.com

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before wearing a mask. Ensure to cover your mouth and nose with your mask and be sure that there is no space between the mask and your face.  Steer clear of touching the mask while you are using it and, just in case you do, wash your hands instantly.  Avoid using the face mask when it is moist; make an immediate change. Whenever you want to take off your mask, please do so making use of the elastic or rubber loops, ensuring not to touch the front and dispose instantly into a closed trash can, and just in case the mask is a reusable type put straight into the washing machine.  The CDC advises that reusable face masks should be washed regularly after each use.

Most masks are mass-produced for sale to the populace hence; the masks available are made from layers of plastics and are often built for use just once.  According to studies done by specialists at University College London, if every individual in the UK uses a single-use mask per day annually, additional 66,000 tonnes of polluted plastic thrash will be formed; hence, making use of reusable masks by the populace will minimize considerably plastic waste and the negative effect it would have had on the climate. A conclusion was reached that according to the best authentication; reusable masks are equally effective in its functionality when compared to the functionality of single-use masks without the addition of generation of extra waste.

New intelligence is surfacing daily on the transmission pattern of the new coronavirus and the recommended ways to stay safe against the Coronavirus. The most helpful defense involves the washing of your hands often with soap and water and practicing social distancing. Nonetheless, putting on cloth face masks in public when social distancing is not possible it provides defense against transmission of the Coronavirus.

Make sure that at any point in time that you are outdoors where you will meet other people, you should put on a mask.  The mask should cover your face from the top of your nose to beneath your chin. It should be fitted but loose enough to allow you to breathe with ease.  Ensure you can converse with your mask on and comfortable so you do not have to touch for adjustment in the course which could put you at risk to reduce its efficacy.  Face masks assists in averting the transmission of the Coronavirus; because the possibility of having the Coronavirus without exhibiting symptoms is very feasible, it is only wise to ensure you put on a face mask even if you anticipate that you are healthy.

A mask assists in curtailing small blobs that come out of your mouth or nose when you sneeze, cough, or talk. If you are infected with the virus you are not exhibiting signs, a face mask minimizes your prospects of transmitting the infection to other people. Nonetheless, peradventure you are healthy; a face mask can minimize the probability of larger blobs getting to you from people around you.  Varied grades of masks are suitable for different requirements and circumstances.

According to the CDC, current research shows that a considerable number of people with the Coronavirus are asymptomatic, and the virus would have transmitted massively before they get to that they are unwell. This research, together with the reality that the coronavirus can be transmitted through close contact with other people, led to their counsel that the populace put on cloth masks in outdoors, principally in places where social distancing is tough or almost impossible like in public transport, food stores and in places where there is a notable figure of community transmission.

In particular states currently, face masks are necessary on public transport and shops. Individuals with underlying health conditions that could pose a high risk if infected with the Coronavirus: this would consist of people above the age of sixty-five and those living with acute ailments like immunity problems, cancer, obesity, heart disease, diabetes, chronic lung disease, etc.  Though regular hand washing and social distancing remain the principal techniques to safeguard against the Coronavirus, it is pertinent that you get examined by your doctor on the best choice for you.