Wear Masks and Stay Safe
Covid-19 pandemic has brought limelight on the usage of masks to fight the infectious disease. Wearing a mask is the first line of defence against the pandemic. Face mask acts as a barrier and prevents inhaling the virus present in the air from entering our body.
Even before the spread of the pandemic, a mask was in use for various reasons such as, at hospitals to protect you from infection, from pollution and dust and for maintaining hygiene. People who are allergic to cold, dry climate or asthmatic are also advised to wear a face mask for their safety. Doctors, paramedic staff, dentists, factory workers, traffic police, wear a face mask for their day to day activities. Thus, the importance of masks in our lives can never be undermined.
Different types of masks
Disposable face mask:
These masks are so designed that it protects you from pollen allergy or pollution. However, these masks are not effective against bacteria, virus as they lack the different filter layers required to protect you from the pathogens. There are certain precautions to use a disposable mask-like not touching the front or inside the mask and only wear it after washing your hands. The disposable mask should not be reused and must be discarded after use.
3-ply disposable surgical mask:
These masks are effective in blocking the spread of minute droplets that spread in the air during sneezing or cough. The disposable surgical face-mask contains ‘Non-woven polypropylene’ (NWPP) material that is efficient in blocking the pathogens.
A surgical mask has three protective layers and a flexible rod at the top. It acts as a physical barrier in the immediate-environment between the wearer and the potential contaminant. The disposable surgical face masks are so designed that they ensure protection against the diseases without compromising on the wearability comfort or breathability. The surgical masks have a bacteria filtration efficiency of >=95 %.
Re-usable face mask:
The anti-bacterial re-usable face masks are also available today. These face masks are 100% cotton and ensure your safety from pollution, dust and bacteria. The dual-layer face mask is perfect for breathing in the fresh air and being skin-friendly. The outer layer has different prints and varied colours, while the inner layer ensures safety. Both the layers of the face mask are treated with an anti-bacterial finish for extra protection.
The re-usable face masks are easy to clean and maintain. These face masks are an effective deterrent against dust, smoke, pollen, allergens and bacteria.
Respiratory Masks N-95:
The respiratory masks are the most effective in protecting people against airborne particles, and they have high filtration efficiency. Biological aerosols such as bacteria or virus present in the worst affected areas or high-risk areas can be contained by using N95 masks. The five-layer respiratory mask is more effective in filtering out minute particles in the air than the surgical mask.
Final verdict
In today’s times, whenever we step out of our house, we must always wear a mask. Government and health authorities are giving regular directions to the general population to adhere to the guidelines. Mask of different types are available, and depending upon the risk perception; one can select a mask. Wearing a mask has multiple benefits, and one must use it to protect himself against infectious diseases.
