When a person infected with a certain disease coughs or talks, he or she may eject microdroplets of salivary secretions that contain viruses. Since the advent of Covid-19, masks have become a part of everyday life. This accessory can protect the nose and mouth from possible droplet projections and infected sputum. However, there are a few rules to follow when using it. For example, you need to know how to put your mask on your face properly. What maintenance and disinfectant can enhance its effectiveness?
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR MASK
Wearing a mask is one of the best ways to protect your nose and mouth against possible droplet projections. It is important to choose it carefully. There are several types of masks, depending on their different uses. For example, there are FFP2 and FFP3 masks, intended primarily for health professionals. They are effective in preventing the risks of transmission by droplets and air, because they filter them from 94% to 99%. They are quite uncomfortable to wear over the long term. There is also the surgical mask for medical use. Generally, it is used by medical personnel, but it has become common among the general public. This mask can filter 95% to 98% of aerosols depending on their type. It could thus protect people from airborne transmission through saliva splashes. The last type is the general public mask, or the so-called alternative mask. Its use is less effective, because their filtration rate drops to 70%. In the restaurant industry, there is the visor mask. It cannot be considered as a respiratory prevention equipment, but as a face and eyes protection. Specialized sites like hygistore.com give you more information.
HOW TO WEAR A MASK ?
Whatever the type of mask, it does not protect effectively if you do not wear it well. It must cover completely the mouth, the chin as well as the nose. After wearing the mask for more than 4 hours, it may become too sweaty and ineffective, and its filtration will no longer work. The mask must also fit snugly on your face. Before putting it on, you must wash your hands with soap or use a hydroalcoholic solution. You must also respect the direction of application. For the blue surgical mask, the bar is at the top and the colored surface is on the outside. The mask is well placed when you no longer feel the air jet in your eyes when you exhale. Once the mask is in place, you should not touch it again, even to talk, phone or smoke.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR MASK?
When you remove your mask, remove it only by the elastics. A surgical mask should be disposed of in a special garbage bag after 4 hours of use, as it can be infected by the neighbor's droplet or by the breath. If you use a cloth mask, it should be washed in a 60° machine for at least 30 minutes. Use a regular detergent, not fabric softener. Dry them with a hair dryer or air dry. If you find any damage to your mask, do not use it again. You should not wear a mask that is kept in your pocket and then put it back on again, as this may cause creasing and damage to the filter.
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