How to Properly Wear a Face Mask
Knowing the proper way to use a face mask is essential to protecting yourself, your family, and in winning the fight against COVID-19. While early information on masks was inconsistent, organizations such as the CDC have come to the conclusion that face coverings reduce the spread of the new virus. In all, a global consensus now exists that masks are one of the keys to resisting the Coronavirus pandemic.
Why Wear a Mask?
Surgical masks are an important component in preventing the spread of COVID-19 due to the unique characteristics of the virus. It has the unique ability to spread from asymptomatic hosts who feel well and may never even know that they have COVID-19. A literature review of independent studies indicates that this asymptomatic period may last as little as two days, or as long as fifteen.
When an asymptomatic host wears a mask, their odds of transmission to others drop dramatically. When everyone knows the proper way to use a face mask and take correct precautions, the public as a whole becomes safer.
Proper Way to Use a Medical Face Mask
Most medical face masks are designed for the wearer to use once and discard. However, it’s not as simple as putting on the mask, taking it off, and throwing it in the trash. To minimize your COVID-19 risk, you need to avoid common mistakes and follow proper procedures.
Follow these Steps
How to Properly Wear a Face Mask
- Wash your hands with soap and hot water before picking up and putting on the mask.
- Before putting on the mask, give it a quick inspection to make sure there are no tears or holes.
- Make sure you put the mask on with the right side facing up. One side has a stiff edge that allows it to mold to the shape of your nose and thus improve the seal.
- Put on your mask and ensure that it’s firmly secured to your face. Mold the bendable edge to the bridge of your nose, and pull the bottom of the mask below your chin.
After following this procedure, you’re wearing your mask properly and you’re ready to head out. Removing your mask properly is a little more complicated, but still fairly straightforward.
How to Remove and Discard a Mask
- Before touching your mask, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly. Touching your face during or after a trip in public is one of the most common mistakes people make that increase COVID-19 spread.
- Do not touch the front of the mask, which has been contaminated by exposure. Reach back and touch the ear loops, ties, or other mechanism securing the mask to your face.
- Pull the mask directly away from your face.
- Discard the mask, or wash it if it’s reusable.
- Wash your hands once more to minimize infection risk related to handling the contaminated mask.
Follow CDC and WHO Guidelines
Following the proper way to use a face mask and adhering to health and safety guidelines are the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.
