Nebraska Medicine expert talks do’s and don’ts of fabric face masks
When it comes to fabric face masks, many experts say they can help limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). But, if not worn and handled properly, they can actually increase your risk of getting sick.
When it comes to fabric face masks, many experts say they can help limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). But, if not worn and handled properly, they can actually increase your risk of getting sick.
Alison Freifeld, an infectious disease expert at Nebraska Medicine, says wearing a fabric face mask isn’t likely to offer you much protection against the coronavirus. What it can do is protect others – especially if you happen to be an asymptomatic carrier.
So, if you do decide to wear a mask, here are some rules Freifeld suggests you follow.
Do’s and Dont’s
Do put the mask on after washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.
Do not wear the mask for more than four hours at a time.
Do wash your hands again after removing the mask.
Do not touch the outside front part of the mask as the area is likely to be contaminated.
Do practice social practicing and hand washing if you wear a mask. Freifeld says masks are not absolutely effective and do not allow you to be less vigilant about staying safe.
Do not buy or wear an N95 respirator mask. These should be reserved for healthcare workers working in close contact with COVID-19 patients.
Do wear a mask if you have COVID-19 symptoms, or caring for someone who does. You should avoid going into public, and you should wear a mask whenever someone enters the room.
Freifeld says there are two main risks with masks that risk you getting infected.
First, she says there’s a danger when you’re putting the mask on and taking it off. Unless you do it safely, your mask could infect you. You could also contaminate your face while you adjust your mask. Nebraska Medicine has a video showing how to properly don and doff a face mask
Second, Freifeld says moisture from breathing into the mask can make it more hospitable for germs to settle into the material. To combat this, she says to clean your mask before wearing it again. Find out how to create, wear and clean face masks by following these CDC guidelines
