Only 24 hours after the first incidence of coronavirus in Nigeria, the cost of face masks and hand sanitizers shot through the roof. And that’s if you found a store that was selling. Many Nigerians went into a panic-buying frenzy and some product sellers thought it smart to hoard face masks and hand sanitizers. What do the coronavirus and face masks have in common? Well, it is widely believed that face marks are a preventive measure against COVID-19. This article will attempt to uncover the substance or lack thereof, of this claim. Have a look below.
Coronavirus And Face Masks: A Preventive Measure Or Waste Of Time?
Celebrity in special face mask | Google
According to the CDC, surgical face masks won’t stop you from inhaling small airborne particles, which can cause infection. Nor do these masks form a snug seal around your face. The CDC recommends surgical masks only for people who already show symptoms of coronavirus and must go outside; since wearing a mask can help prevent spreading the virus by protecting others nearby when you cough or sneeze. The agency also recommends these masks if you’re a caregiver of someone infected with the virus.
But it seems people don’t agree, as even celebrities share photos of themselves in masks on social media.
“Seriously people- STOP BUYING MASKS!” tweeted Dr. Jerome Adams, the U.S. Surgeon General, on Feb. 29. “They are NOT effective in preventing general public from catching #Coronavirus; but if healthcare providers can’t get them to care for sick patients, it puts them and our communities at risk!”
In an interview, Adams said that wearing a mask can even increase your risk of getting the virus. “Folks who don’t know how to wear them properly tend to touch their faces a lot and actually can increase the spread of coronavirus.”
But people keep buying and wearing masks. Why? Some believe that wearing a mask reduces how many times they touch their nose and mouth; even though there’s no data to support this. Other reasons are purely psychological. One stems from the fear of losing control to a virus we know little about preventing.
By using a mask, even if it doesn’t do a lot, it gives you control of the situation; away from the virus. It gives the individual a greater sense of control in this otherwise not-controlled situation.
COVID-19 And Face Masks: What The World Health Organization Has To Say
Health worker screening travellers at airport | Google
According to the WHO, this is what you should know about the subject of wearing masks.
- If you are healthy, you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with a suspected 2019-nCoV infection.
- Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing.
- Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
- If you wear a mask, then, you must know how to use it and dispose of it properly.
How To Wear, Remove And Dispose Of Your Masks
- Before putting on a mask, clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
- Cover mouth and nose with mask and make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
- Avoid touching the mask while using it; if you do, clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
- Replace the mask with a new one as soon as it is damp and do not re-use single-use masks.
- To remove the mask: remove it from behind (do not touch the front of the mask); discard immediately in a closed bin; clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
Stay informed on the latest developments about COVID-19. Follow the advice given by your healthcare provider, your national and local public health authority or your employer on how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.
Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on whether COVID-19 is spreading in your area. They are best placed to advise on what people in your area should be doing to protect themselves.
How To Protect Yourself And Others From Infection
Whether you wear a mask as a preventive measure against the coronavirus, remember to protect yourself. Practice good hygiene; wash your hands with soap and water regularly; and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Always cough or sneeze into your elbow or tissue paper and dispose of it immediately.
Stay at home if you begin to feel unwell, even with mild symptoms such as headache and slight runny nose, until you recover. Why? Avoiding contact with others and visits to medical facilities will allow these facilities to operate more effectively and help protect you and others from possible COVID-19 and other viruses.
If you develop fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical advice promptly as this may be due to a respiratory infection or other serious condition. Call in advance and tell your provider of any recent travel or contact with travellers. Why? Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also help to prevent the possible spread of COVID-19 and other viruses.
Time , World Health Organization
Also read: 12 Coronavirus Myths Busted! : Coronavirus Myths You Should Know About
