Wearing a correct mask can help users to prevent germs and pollution effectively. Which should be done as follows
How to wear a general mask.
- Wash your hands and clean to prevent infection from attaching to your hands.
- Choose the right size for the mask. If a child should choose a specific size so that the mask is not too big
- Wear a mask to fit the face. By turning the colored side out And have the side with the wire on top If it is a colorless face mask Notice the crease of the mask. If the corner of the crease is pointed below, that is the outside of the mask.
- While wearing a face mask If it is a mask that must be tied to the end of the rope To tie the lower string around the neck The top line is tied around the head. If it is a type of elastic cord To fasten both ears Then squeeze the wire to fit the nose Will make the mask fit the face
- Pull the mask off and close the mouth, nose and chin.
How to wear a N95 respirator
- Hold a mask in the palm of your hand And cover the mouth and nose
- Pull the strap of the mask under the head, then pull down under the ear. Then, pull the strap on the head strap to the area behind the head. Then squeeze the wire to fit the nose
- Check order that the mask is attached to the face or not.
- Test the fit of the mask by using both hands to pat the area of the mask and try to breathe. If the mask fits the face when inhaling, the mask will collapse. Exhale. The mask will swell out.
In addition, users should change the mask when knowing that the mask used is wet. Or by secretions such as mucus and should not be reused. Avoid washing, cleaning or sanitizing. Also, should not share a mask with others. After changing the mask, the mask should be put in a sealed bag before discarding. Or dumped in an infected trash And wash hands to prevent residues
Who should wear a surgical mask?
The mask is suitable for people of all ages and genders. A group of people who should use a mask to prevent the spread of the infection from themselves to others. Or prevent oneself from becoming infected by other patients, including
- People who must be near or have close contact with patients with respiratory disease
- People with respiratory illnesses who must be close to normal people. Or have to go outside
- People who have to go to the risky area Or places with patients with respiratory illnesses, such as hospitals or crowded places, etc.
Limitations of sanitary masks
Although the mask is useful for health protection. But there are still some limitations as follows
- 100% unprotected. Most masks have an effective protection of only about 80% depending on the quality of the material. If it is a N95 respirator, it is 95% protective, so users may still be at risk of becoming infected.
- Not able to prevent all types of germs Although there is a certain degree of protection against pathogens, no specific tests have been made to protect against specific pathogens. Therefore, masks cannot be used to prevent specific diseases.
- One time use Almost all face masks are disposable. And cannot be reused. Or washable Since once the germs are on the mask Repeated use may increase the risk of infection.
- There is no clear research that can help prevent Although the medical community recommends using masks to prevent pollution or respiratory infections. But there is no clear study of how effective masks can be for preventing germs, respiratory or pollution. Therefore requiring additional studies for more clear results.
Mask type
Masks that are on sale generally divided into 2 major categories according to the characteristics of the mask. And the efficiency of air filtering as follows
- General face mask This mask is quite tight on the face. By attaching to the face In which the medical profession is the majority And is often used to prevent the spread of germs through coughing or sneezing, but the disadvantage of this mask is The bottom area of the mask will not prevent exposure to contaminants from inhalation.
- N95 face mask is a type of mask that can help prevent very small germs. The protective efficiency is higher than normal mask. As the mask looks like it covers the entire face of the mouth and nose, the virus or contaminants cannot pass through it. This type of mask is often used in the medical community that needs high safety from infection, including the prevention of TB. Or anthrax That is harmful to humans Also often used during work, such as working with chemicals or using colors that may cause an unpleasant odor. However, when using a N95 mask, it must be chosen appropriately. Because different sizes and brands may affect the efficiency of air filters.
