Masks have now become one of the tools that we must wear, especially when doing activities outside the home. The use of masks can certainly prevent transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19. And is one of the health protocols that have been implemented in Indonesia. We can use cloth or surgical masks when in public spaces. But how effective is the use of this mask? Let's look at the following complete facts:
- The most effective prevention
Wearing a mask is an effective way to prevent transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19. The effectiveness of wearing a mask properly and correctly can reduce the chance of transmission by 50-80%. Every individual is required to wear a mask during a pandemic. Using a mask properly requires paying attention to several things. Namely, before wearing a mask, wash your hands with soap and running water, at least 20 seconds or if not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Put the mask on to cover your mouth and nose, and make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask. Then, avoid touching the mask when in use, if touched, wash your hands immediately with soap and running water, for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer.
- Use the right type of mask
Currently there are many types of masks circulating, but not all of them are suitable for use as a means of preventing the transmission of the COVID-19 virus. The use of this type of mask with the right ingredients will be more effective in preventing this. If you are sick, it is mandatory to use a medical mask available on the market. It must be used both inside and outside the home. However, if you are in good health, a cloth mask with 3 layers of material is enough to protect yourself.
Cloth masks can be used for a maximum of only four hours and must be replaced with a new and clean mask, if the mask used is wet or damp. Avoid wearing scuba masks, which only consist of one layer of material. The scuba mask will enlarge its pores if used, so it is unable to hold the droplets that come out of our mouths or enter our mouths.
- Discipline in using masks
When using a mask, you must be consistent in always wearing it. Do not open the lid of the mask too often. Moreover, open the mask and move it to the forehead or chin (around the throat). When the mask is opened, there is no automatic protection for the mouth and respiratory tract. Then the mask can also get dirty because it sticks to the sweat from the forehead and chin.
Even when using a mask, it must be precise and correct, especially if you use a medical mask. Medical masks are characterized by a rectangular shape with straps on both sides. This mask usually consists of two colors, the inside of the mask that attaches to the nose and mouth is white. While the outside is usually green or blue and has a rougher texture. The function of the outer mask layer has the ability to prevent splashes of liquid from entering the mouth and nose.
As well as for the use of medical masks, don't get the position wrong. For the top there is always a wire, while there is no bottom. When wearing a mask, you must pull the wire up to the top of the nose. Make sure there are no loose gaps at the top, to minimize small particles getting into the nose and mouth. For the lower part, pull it down to the bottom of the chin, so that from the top of the nostrils to the chin it is covered by a mask.
Those are some facts regarding the effectiveness of using masks in this pandemic era. Always take care of your health by eating nutritious food, exercising diligently, sunbathing diligently in the sun at a vulnerable time from 8 to 10 in the morning and check with your doctor if you experience symptoms that you don't normally feel, especially in the respiratory department. #LiveExcellently
Article written by dr. Herman, Sp.P (Asthma & Lung Specialist at EMC Sentul Hospital).