Proper use of mouth and nose masks can prevent the spread of COVID-19 infection (by covering the entire mouth and nose, not just the mouth). Individuals who have been infected with COVID-19 can spread germs to other individuals through the mouth and nose when the individual sneezes or coughs. When we breathe, indirectly healthy individuals can be infected through droplets from the nose or mouth that are spread from individuals infected with COVID-19 who cough or sneeze. If we wear the mouth and nose cover properly, we can avoid getting infected with COVID-19.
Staying away from others is the most important step to prevent the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 – the virus that causes COVID-19. However, it is not always easy to maintain a reasonable physical distance from others if one goes out to work or buy necessities. In that case, other measures such as hand washing will help reduce the spread of the virus.
The N95 cover as well as the surgical cover are the most effective in terms of preventing the spread of respiratory viruses, but they are not reusable and face supply shortages worldwide. The WHO states that N95 veils and surgeries should be reserved for healthcare staff and frontline workers who desperately need them. Cloth and paper covers are less effective although there are various studies that show it may still have a protective effect.
The fabric cover should be comfortable on the wearer’s face. It should have several layers of fabric but still allow the wearer to breathe without any restrictions. People should be careful and do not touch their eyes, nose and mouth when opening the face mask. They should also wash their hands immediately after opening it. Reusable face masks should be able to withstand being washed and dried several times without damaging or changing their shape. Preferably, the mask is washed every time after use.
The effectiveness of surgical coverings falls significantly if it becomes damp. There is also a risk of infection if the cover is already contaminated. Therefore, the mask cannot be reused. However, if a person lacks a mask and does not have a reusable mask, the surgical mask can still be reused if it is not contaminated or damp. Care must be taken when reusing the mask to prevent one’s hands from being accidentally contaminated. It should always be worn with the folds facing outwards.