10 Common Errors To Avoid Making When Wearing Face Masks
10 Common Errors To Avoid Making When Wearing Face Masks. It’s a great thing to note that many people are now adapting to the new normal of wearing face masks, more so in public places. Having noted that though, there are still some who don’t wear their masks properly. Remember not wearing it properly can pose more danger than not wearing it at all.
Here is how you can be safe when wearing your face masks to avoid the spread of covid-19.
1. Wearing A Wrong Size
If the mask you’re wearing doesn’t fit, it’s not as effective. If it’s too small, you’re either leaving your nose or chin exposed. Virus particles can get in through the side openings if it’s too loose. The mask should be snug against your face! This goes for kid masks as well.
2. You’re Wearing It Wrong
Masks have a front (that is usually colored, textured or has the brand name) and a back (that is usually white and more cotton-like). The back side should be touching your face. It is designed this way so that particles are properly filtered.
3. You’re Not Fully Covered
Granted, wearing a mask can be a bit uncomfortable, hence many people wear them below the nose. While it will still protect others if you are coughing or sneezing, it will not protect you from COVID-19 if someone else nearby is infected and coughs. Once the mask is fitted properly on the nose, it should be extended so that it fits right under your chin
4. Touching The Mask With Your Hands
If you contaminate your mask even from the outside, you can get easily infected. Taking off your face mask and then reapplying it with contaminated hands can move the bacteria or virus directly into the breathable area. Make sure your hands are clean before adjusting the mask. It’s best to avoid touching your face in general.
5. Putting It On Surfaces After Using
Once you wear a mask once, it’s contaminated by whatever. If you take the mask off and sit it on another surface, that surface is now contaminated. It’s best to use one-use masks and once they are taken off, dispose of them. If you use a cloth or hand-made mask, it needs to be washed and sanitized between wears.
6. Wearing the Same Mask All Day
A mask should be changed or disinfected as often as every 2 hours, otherwise viral particles can accumulate on it and you are more likely to breathe them in. Applying any chemical like Lysol to the mask that makes it wet is bad. You can spray it to sanitize lightly, and then put it in a bag. Do not saturate it.
7. You Think All Masks Are the Same
Different masks have different uses. An N95 mask filters out 95% of bacteria and viruses if they are correctly fitted to your face. This is what healthcare workers are using to better protect themselves when caring for sick patients. A surgical mask is designed to contain your droplets to help protect those around you.
8. You’re Putting It on Too Late
Without the mask, you’re susceptible to inhaling the particles in the air. You must put it on ahead of entering an area of risk. The moment you step out of the house, wear your mask. Normalize wearing your mask even when you are around people you assume are ‘healthy.’
9. You’re Getting the Mask Wet
Once the mask becomes wet, it becomes less effective and needs to be changed to a dry one. Avoid touching the mask with your tongue. Touching the mask with your tongue makes it wet and more porous. You want the mask to stay dry.
10. You’re Taking it Off Wrong
When you’re done wearing the mask for the day, there’s a chance you could contaminate yourself taking it off. The bacteria on your mask could get on your hands, and then it would spread. Wash your hands before taking off the mask. Take it off my unlooping it from your ears first and then either throw it out (if it’s a one time use) or keep it in its special place.
