2 minute read
Face Mask 101
In the time of Covid, we don't leave home without a face mask. But there's a right way and a wrong way to wear a face mask
WHEN SHOULD YOU WEAR YOUR MASK?
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Indoors, in crowded situations, particularly where people are speaking loudly, shouting or singing, Also at the supermarket, in shops and anywhere indoors or outdoors where you’re likely to come into contact with people.
WHICH MASK IS BEST?
Though FFP3 respirator masks provide the maximum protection for the wearer there is a limited supply. For the public, experts advise cloth masks preferably with any kind of tightly woven fabric.
H O W M A N Y T I M E S C A N Y O U W E A R A DISPOSABLE MASK?
They’re not designed to be worn more than once. Whereas a cloth mas can have a better fit and can be reused as many times as you like.
W H AT S T E P S S H O U L D Y O U TA K E BEFORE TOUCHING YOUR MASK?
Medical advice says to wash your hands before putting your mask on. When you take your mask off use the straps rather than the front. Try to avoid touching the mask area.
HOW SHOULD IT FIT?
According to a study by the University of Edinburgh, masks need to have a tight fit to be really effective. It needs to be fairly snug to block droplets coming out of your mouth.
H O W C A N Y O U S T O R E O R CARRY A MASK?
Even though the chance of picking up an infection from your mask is low, you’ll want to keep it as clean as possible. Experts recommend putting your mask in a Ziploc bag to ensure that is away from everything else. Alternatively wrap it in a scarf.
HOW SHOULD YOU WASH IT AND HOW OFTEN?
Wash your mask after every use. You can either wash your mask at a hot temperature in the laundry or handwash. Though the World Health Organization advises boiling your face mask for one minute if it has been handwashed in room-temperature water.
WHO SHOULDN’T WEAR ONE?
As well as younger children, there are exemptions for some people with health conditions or disabilities and people who assist them. For example, if you are travelling with someone who relies on lip-reading, you are not required to wear a mask.
