The World Health Organisation (WHO) issued new guidelines for the use of face masks to protect oneself from COVID-19. The new guidelines recommended medical masks for all people working in a health facility’s clinical area. People aged 60 or over with underlying conditions should wear a medical mask in situations where physical distancing is not possible. The general public advised wearing cloth masks made from at least three layers of fabric while using public transport, in shops, or other crowded places.
Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s, technical lead expert on coronavirus explained that the public should wear a fabric mask. In order to be effective, fabric masks need to consist of at least three layers of a different material.
Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said, “In the light of evolving evidence, WHO advises that governments should encourage the general public to wear masks amid widespread transmission and where physical distancing is difficult.” Masks cannot replace physical distancing or hand hygiene, he added.
How to wear a mask safely?
- Clean your hands before touching the mask.
- Inspect the mask for damage or if dirty.
- Adjust the mask to your face without leaving gaps on the sides.
- Mask must cover your mouth, nose and chin.
- Avoid frequent touching of face and mask.
- Clean your hands before removing the mask.
- Remove the mask by the straps behind the ears or head.
- Pull the mask away from your face.
- If the mask is of fabric, store the mask in a clean plastic bag if it is not dirty or wet and you plan to reuse it.
- Use the mask straps when taking it out of the bag.
- Clean your hands after removing the mask.
- Wash the fabric mask in soap or detergent with warm water at least once a day.
- Do not leave the surgical mask within the reach of others and dump it properly.
- Avoid reusing the surgical mask.
