From March 2020, there were various phases of lockdown. As the Government of India issued “Stay at Home” orders, many people have become alert before stepping in public. Both, The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have recommended the use of face masks for the general public. The guidelines have been set by these centers and must be religiously followed. We must ensure that everyone follows these guidelines and stick to them. With the emergence of vaccines, let’s not forget that the coronavirus persists. The World Health Organization (WHO) held a media briefing on June 5 2020 to ensure the guidelines for wearing face masks among the healthcare workers and general population. 

The reason for the face mask 

Coronavirus spreads from person to person through:

• Small droplets 
• Cloud of tiny airborne particles 
• Direct contact 

These droplets can also be picked up from the surfaces. If you touch a particular surface, you might transmit the infection by touching your face without sanitizing your hands. This is why social distancing, regular sanitization, washing of hands, covering your mouth during cough and sneezes are very important to control the spread of the virus.

Scientific evidence about wearing a face mask to prevent the spread of coronavirus

The best available scientific evidence is that wearing a mask may help in reducing the spread of the coronavirus and thus ensure the safety of people. The World Health Organization (WHO) officials said that masks should be used as a part of an overall comprehensive strategy to protect from the coronavirus spread. The health experts say that evidence is clear that masks can help to prevent the spread of COVID19.

Invest in the right face mask for yourself

Wearing a “happening” facemask is now the latest trend. People want to showcase their facemask and stand out in public these days. Let’s not forget the value of protection it adds to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Facemask is not a fashion accessory. It is important these days to wear a mask before you step out of your home. The selection of masks has made people choosy. They want a more aesthetically pleasing mask for their face. As there was a shortage of N95 masks in the early 2020s, people started to opt for handmade masks or cloth-based masks. It is important to note that these masks are not fully medical-graded. Choose a mask that is medically graded and provides you protection against the spread of coronavirus.

The correct way of wearing a face mask

Face coverings with multiple layers that fit the face well are considered apt. It is important to keep the face mask clean and handle it well. 

The top 10 tips to choose a perfect face mask 

1. A face mask should fit you comfortably and should not be too tight or loose allowing you to breathe
2. It should cover your nose and mouth properly and there should be no gaps between the face and mask
3. It should be secure on your face towards the side of your face and should perfectly tie with ears. 
4. The quality of the mask should be breathable and comfortable like cotton fabric
5. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends three-layered masks which are the best to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. 
6. The size of the virus is 125 nanometers and the three layers mask will work at its best
7. If you are using a non-disposable mask, make sure to wash it before every use 
8. Ensure that you keep your mask clean always 
9. It is important to sanitize your hands with an alcohol rub before using the mask
10. Remember, the facemask should be for individual use and not be shared with others to prevent contamination