How to wear your mask correctly
Wearing a protective face mask incorrectly is almost as pointless as wearing no mask at all. We have tips to help you get it right!
IN South Africa wearing a mask in public is mandatory.
However, even the most perfect mask, cannot do what it is intended to do without being worn properly.
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Fabric masks need to be stored, cleaned and put on properly to ensure the best protection against Covid-19.
Use the handles to around your ears or secured at the back of your head when putting the mask on or taking it off.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued advice about mask-wearing: “Depending on the type, masks can be used for either protection of healthy persons or to prevent onward transmission, non-medical, fabric masks can be used by the general public under the age of 60 and who do not have underlying health conditions.”
What type of mask?
“WHO does not advise using masks or respirators with exhalation valves. These masks are intended for industrial workers to prevent dust and particles from being breathed in as the valve closes on inhale. However, the valve opens on exhale, making it easier to breathe but also allowing any virus to pass through the valve opening. This makes the mask ineffective at preventing the spread of Covid-19 or any other respiratory virus,” said the guidelines on masks choices.
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While there are many different types of face masks available at almost any retailer, not all masks were created equal. “Fabric masks should be made of three layers of fabric. If purchasing a fabric mask from a store, check to make sure it meets national performance standards.” Fabric masks need to be washed regularly either in hot water or ironed before re-use.
A common error when donning a mask is to momentarily blind yourself when putting it on, for that reason, don’t try to put on a mask while driving or walking in the street.
Where to mask up?
WHO advises that masks should be worn at all times in crowded settings. While wearing a mask, every effort should still be made to adhere to other transmission control behaviours such as hand washing, maintaining social distance and avoiding crowded areas.
“Wearing a mask does not mean you can have close contact with people.”
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Do it right!
– Make sure hands are clean, either by washing them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser, before putting on, or taking off the mask.
– Check the mask for any holes or damage like tears. Never wear a damaged mask.
– Adjust the mask to cover your mouth, nose, and chin, leaving no gaps on the sides.
– Place the straps behind your head or ears and do not cross the straps because this can cause gaps on the side of your face. Avoid touching the mask while wearing it. If you touch it, clean your hands.
Don’t forget to also cover your nose.
– Take off the mask by removing it from the ear loops, without touching the front.
– Clean your hands after removing the mask.
– Make sure you have your own mask and do not share it with others.
– Resist the temptation to pull down your mask to your chin or take it off when speaking to other people.
Never wear your mask on your chin.
Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting
Dear reader, As your local news provider, we have the duty of keeping you factually informed on Covid-19 developments. As you may have noticed, mis- and disinformation (also known as “fake news”) is circulating online. Caxton Local Media is determined to filter through the masses of information doing the rounds and to separate truth from untruth in order to keep you adequately informed. Local newsrooms follow a strict pre-publication fact-checking protocol. A national task team has been established to assist in bringing you credible news reports on Covid-19. Readers with any comments or queries may contact National Group Editor Irma Green (irma@caxton.co.za) or Legal Adviser Helene Eloff (helene@caxton.co.za).
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