Can face masks prevent Coronavirus infections?

Can face masks slow down the spread of the coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 that causes the disease? COVID-19 What? Yes. Yes. Face masks, along with other preventative measures such as vaccinating, frequent hand-washing, and physical distancing can slow down the spread of the virus.

The World Health Organization (WHO), recommends medical masks to health care workers and anyone with a history of AIDS. COVID-19 Or who cares for someone with a disability. COVID-19 .

How do masks differ from one another?

Medical masks

These disposable surgical masks are also known as loose-fitting surgical masks. The masks are designed to protect the wearer from germ-carrying sprays and droplets. Medical masks filter large particles from the air when the wearer inhales.

You can make medical masks more fitted by knotting the ear loops that attach to the mask. Fold the material you don’t need under the edges.

N95 Masks

An n95 mask can be used as a type respirator. Because it filters both small and large particles from the inhale, an N95 mask provides more protection than a medical one.

N95 masks are in limited supply so the CDC They should be reserved only for health care professionals, according to the FDA. Before using N95 masks, health care professionals must have passed a fitness test and be trained. N95 masks are disposable, just like surgical masks. Researchers are currently testing disinfection and reuse methods.

Cloth masks

The purpose of a cloth mask is to trap the respiratory droplets released by coughing, talking, or sneezing. The mask acts as an obstruction to prevent the wearer inhaling any droplets that are released by others.

Multiple layers of tightly woven fabric, such as cotton, make cloth masks that are highly effective. Layers will prevent more droplets from entering your mask and escaping.

How to get the best out of your mask

To improve the effectiveness of medical and cloth masks, ensure that they are properly fitted to your face. This will prevent air leakage around the edges. You should be able to fit the mask snugly over your nose, mouth, and chin. When you exhale, warm air should be coming out of the mask’s front. Air shouldn’t be coming out of the mask’s edges.

A nose strip that bends can help stop air from getting out of the mask’s top.

Some people prefer to wear a disposable face mask underneath their cloth mask. If this is the case, the disposable mask should be pressed against the face by the cloth mask. If layers make it difficult to breathe or block your vision, don’t add them.

How well your masks protect you depends on how they are stored and used. These are the steps to put on and take off your mask.

• Before and after you put on your mask, wash your hands.
• Your mask should be placed over your mouth, nose, and chin.
• Use ear loops or tie it behind your ears. It should be snug.
• Wear your mask with care.
• Hands should be washed if you happen to touch your mask.
• You can remove the mask by untying or lifting it off your ears.
• After removing your mask, wash your hands immediately.
• Wash cloth masks regularly in the washer or by hand. They can be washed with
  the rest of your laundry.

These precautions are important to remember:

• Do not put masks on people who have difficulty breathing, are unconscious or
  are unable to take off the mask.
• Children under 2 years old should not be wearing masks.
• Face masks should not be used as a substitute to physical distancing.