Pandemic Diaries Entry # 2

 

Wearing face masks is our basic line of defense against the COVID virus. It is one way to protect us from the virus. And if you are a carrier, you protect the others around you from getting infected.

There are different kinds of face masks. There are surgical masks, N95, washable masks, etc. Experts have advised which are effective in preventing the virus.

For surgical masks, wear 3-ply for better protection. And make sure that the chin, nose, and mouth are covered. Wearing surgical masks is advisable if you are taking care of a sick family member.

For medical workers, wearing N95 is advisable if they will come in contact with aerosol droplets. N95 provides a snug fit and gives better protection for the wearer.

Surgical masks and N95 should be disposed of properly. These should be thrown in a separate and covered trash bin. We don’t want the virus to spread further. During the early months of the quarantine period, it has been a concern for garbage collectors because the face masks are thrown together with the ordinary garbage.

Washable masks are for everyday use. I think that washable masks would lessen the expense of buying masks because you can keep washing the one you have. Of course, make sure to wash it properly. Either scrub it by hand or put it in the washing machine. But use enough soap and water to remove the virus.

Who can wear face masks?

Initially, face masks are fitted for adults. The ones available on the market are for adults. And you either have to go online or specialty shops to buy a smaller size. After all, children are supposed to remain indoors for their safety. Younger children might find it difficult to breathe through a mask. So you might think that there’s no need to provide a mask for them, right?

With the easing of quarantine restrictions, some circumstances make it okay to bring the children outside, like going to the doctor. But I still won’t advocate going out of town with the young ones, even if they stay inside the private vehicles.

Going back to my topic, I have seen super cute face masks for children. These are even printed and come in different colors. It’s a bit pricey compared with the regular surgical masks, though.

How to remove masks

And now it’s time to remove the masks. When you get home, have a dedicated trash bin for your disposable masks. Remove your mask from the strap, and fold it without touching the outer part. I would recommend tearing the straps before discarding since there have been reports of other people re-using face masks found in trash cans. I haven’t verified the accuracy, but you can never be too sure.

But what I’ve seen in social media are individuals reusing the masks to plant seedlings. There’s this one on Facebook, where the lady cleaned the masks she used before planting in them. Now, this is one idea I don’t mind replicating. Number one, we lessen wastes. Number two, we plant more so we can produce more oxygen for the Earth. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.

Wearing masks in social media

Speaking of social media, I have seen posts in Facebook, Instagram and Twitter about the importance of using facemasks. Here’s the one that I like, it’s simple but direct to the point.

Photo Credit: Master Sardines Facebook Page