A Face mask is a product that protects yourself from particles and droplets contaminating your face. It is essential to wear one to protect yourself from Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) whenever you go out of your home. The COVID-19 is an infectious disease brought out by the SARS-CoV 2 virus which is responsible for 5,719,442 deaths globally. The three common types of face masks you can use to protect yourself from illnesses are surgical, N95, and cloth masks.
#1: Surgical mask
A surgical mask is a loose-fitting, disposable device that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose to protect wearers from potential contaminants in their immediate environment. For COVID-19 prevention, the face mask protects the wearer’s mouth and nose from large-particle droplets, splashes, splatter that may contain bacteria and germs. In addition, it helps reduce exposure of saliva and respiratory secretions to others.
The surgical mask is disposable so make sure to not wear it more than once. And in addition, avoid sharing it with others to prevent diseases like COVID-19.
#2: Medical-Use N95 Respirators
According to the U.S. Drug Administration, a medical-use N95 respirator is a face mask designed to achieve a close facial fit and it has an efficient filtration of airborne particles. For COVID-19 prevention, it protects its wearers from the transfer of microorganisms, body fluids, and other airborne particles from the environment.
Labeled single-use N95 respirators must be disposed of once used. If yours is damaged or soiled, or if breathing becomes difficult, remove it and throw it away. Also, make sure to replace it with a new one. Not to mention, wearers must take note that the mask is not intended for children or people with facial hair because it may not fit them properly. It might not be able to provide full protection from viruses such as COVID-19.
#3: Cloth mask
A cloth mask is a piece of fabric that effectively traps the wearer’s respiratory droplets and protects them from inhaling fluid particles released by others. As stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to effectively determine the effectiveness of the face mask, it must contain two or more layers of breathable fabric for COVID-19 prevention. It should fit snugly on the mouth and nose with no gap. Warm air should not come out to the sides when you breathe out.
Do not wear cloth masks that make it difficult to breathe. An example is a piece of vinyl fabric. Thus, only use cotton as your material for COVID-19 prevention. Don’t forget to wash it after every use to prevent spreading the disease.
For COVID-19 prevention, make sure to wear your face mask at all times whenever you go out. Using one would not only protect you from the virus but also helps others from avoiding illnesses as well.
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