Correct way to use face mask and discard it

Coronavirus has become a household name what with its presence increasing by the day across the world. With no vaccine being found so far, the only one every health expert has been reminding is to take all necessary precautions to keep the virus at bay.

The first and foremost of all the precautions listed is wearing face mask. Do you know that a face mask should be opted only when you cough or sneeze, or have coronavirus or when taking care of anyone suspected of having it? Now, let us know the right way to wear the mask and when to discard it.

Coronavirus (CoV) belongs to a large family of viruses that can lead to respiratory illnesses, ranging from common cold to more severe diseases like Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV).

Earlier this year, a new strain of coronavirus was discovered which has not been previously identified in human beings, also known as a novel coronavirus (nCov).

Covid-19 is a virus that causes respiratory disease and in very serious cases, it can lead to pneumonia.

Let us understand the symptoms of coronavirus. 

If one exhibits symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties, then he/she may suffer from coronavirus. In more severe cases, Covid-19 can even cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome and kidney failure. These symptoms can be particularly dangerous for the elderly patients or people with existing health conditions. Do not delay if you spot these symptoms when it comes to your loved ones or yourself..

Tackling the virus

It is the need of the hour to deal with this deadly virus by taking several measures such as washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, using a sanitiser if soap and water are not available, avoiding moving in crowded places and using a face mask, if one has cough and cold. However, it should be remembered that face mask should be opted only when one is sick. Yes, you have heard it right.

Welthi spoke to Dr Sanggita Checker, consultant pulmonologist, Wockhardt Hopsitial, Mira Road, Mumbai, to know about when and how to use a face mask, and its proper disposal.

When to wear a mask?

•            Wear a mask only if you have symptoms like cough, fever or any difficulty in breathing.

•            If you are a Covid-19 positive patient

•            If you are a health worker attending to patients with respiratory ailments

•            Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.

How to wear a mask?

•            Clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitiser before touching the mask.

•            Remove a mask from the box/pack and make sure that there are no obvious tears or holes on either side of the mask.

•            Determine which side of the mask is the top side. You should know that the side of the mask that has a stiff bendable edge is the top and is meant to mold to the shape of your nose.

•            Know which side is the front. Remember that the side which is coloured is the front and should face away from you, and the white side should touch your face.

•            There should be no gap between your face and mask.

Adhere to the following guidelines for the type of mask you are using

•            Face mask with ties: The mask should be at your nose-level and the ties should be placed over the crown of the head and then secure it with the bow.

•            Face mask with ear loops: You will have to hold the mask by the ear loops and place each loop around your ears.

•            Face mask with bands: Here, you must hold the mask in your hand with the nosepiece or top of the mask with fingertips, allowing the headbands to hang freely. The mask should be at the nose-level and then pull the strap over your head so that it rests over the crown of the head. Pull the bottom strap over your head so that it rests at the nape of your neck.

Removing the mask and dispose of

•            Clean your hands with the help of soap or a hand sanitiser before touching the mask. Do not touch the front side of the mask as it is contaminated. You must only touch the ear loops/ ties/ bands.

•            To remove face mask with ear loops: Hold both of the ear loops and remove the mask gently.

•            Face mask with ties: Untie the bottom bow first then untie the top bow and pull away the mask as the ties are loosened.

•            Face mask with bands: Lift the bottom strap over your head first and then pull the top strap over your head.

•            Discard the mask immediately in the trash bin and clean your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.

Takeaway: You must replace the mask as soon as it is damp or wet. Do not re-use the mask. Follow these vital guidelines while wearing a mask and stay safe.

For More Details: Dr. Sanggita Checker, consultant pulmonologist, Wockhardt Hopsitial, Mira Road, Mumbai.