Ballito local eases demand for face masks

Shortages of face masks worldwide are placing health professionals and hospital staff at risk as those who need to use them, cannot find them.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), masks need only be worn by those working with people who may be infected with Covid-19 and if you are coughing or sneezing.

Hospitals and clinics around the North Coast have resorted to exchanging resources between themselves to balance the need for N95 and surgical masks required to work in a close hospital environment with possibly infected patients.

One Ballito-based physiotherapist, Lianca Dookran, has taken matters into her own hands by manufacturing her own masks, and has posted them for sale as an alternative to the traditional medical mask in order to alleviate demand and assist the medical industry.

Ecomasks, born from the crisis in supply, are fashionable, re-usable and eco-friendly material masks that cover the nose and mouth effectively to prevent transmission of fluids from anyone sneezing or coughing.

“The N95 mask is expensive and should be reserved for those on the frontline or a Covid-19 positive patient,” said Dookran.

“We have been researching masks for several weeks and started manufacturing a month ago.”

According to Dookran, the masks cannot combat the virus, but this was not the intent behind the creation or design.

“Our masks are designed with the same purpose as most masks, to prevent the user from touching their face, which is how the virus enters our bodies, through the nose and mouth.”

In order to make your own mask at home in the event of an emergency, Dookran also advises which materials to use.

“With cotton blends showing a 74 percent effectiveness and dish towels showing an 83 percent effectiveness against fluid particle transfer and a scarf only coming up as 62 percent effective, these are possible items to use. Google a design pattern and feel free to make your own mask at home.”

“Double layers can assist filtration and hair ties make great ear loops to keep them on.”

Dookran does advise that these types of masks do not classify as personal protective equipment (PPE) and should only be used in an absolute emergency.

Regular hand washing and sanitizing is the effective way to get the best use from the mask.

The correct use of a mask is a factor that many people take for granted, and the World Health Organisation has strong guidelines in terms of use and disposal.

According to Ballito-based doctor Lerusha Naidoo, the public need to be aware that incorrect mask use can actually contribute to the spread of disease rather than detract from it.

“It is recommended that you touch the mask as infrequently as possible, and if you are healthy, it is in fact better to not use a mask at all,” said Naidoo, who said the mask builds up moisture around the face which attracts particles from the air that one would not normally ingest.

“Do not drop the mask down or keep touching it, as germs on the mask now spread to your hands and neck. In most cases, unless you are coughing or sneezing, it would be better to not use a mask and instead, keep washing your hands and practice good hygiene.”

Naidoo said homemade masks are an absolute crisis measure and that these will not prevent you from contracting the virus if not sealed or made properly.

“We recognise that most masks act as a placebo for those in good health but who are panicking. It is important to remember that wearing a mask does not grant you immunity to go outside and continue activities as normal. It is strongly advised that you take the most basic precautions by staying sterile and remain at home.”

Should anyone wish to buy the Ecomasks made by Lianca Dookran, contact her at 072 729 4763, with availability in both Tongaat and Ballito.

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