These are the Mask Options for the Corona Virus

Lately, people are increasingly busy looking for masks to protect themselves from the Coronavirus. However, the large selection of masks on the market can make you confused. To choose a mask, you need to understand the function of each mask first. Check out the following article for an explanation.

Currently, using a mask is recommended for people traveling to anticipate the transmission of the Coronavirus. This virus is found in the saliva of a sick person when he sneezes, coughs, or even while talking. Transmission occurs when saliva splashes are inhaled by other people who are around.

Masks also need to be used when someone is in a closed room with other people, for example, when at the office.

Choice of Masks for Corona Virus

The types of masks are very diverse. Some of them are only useful to ward off pollution but cannot prevent the transmission of the Coronavirus. Until now, there are 3 types of masks for the Coronavirus that are recommended to the public:

Cloth mask

Following the recommendation of the Indonesian Ministry of Health, everyone is advised to wear cloth masks when they have to travel outside the home, for example when they have to work or buy monthly necessities. Cloth masks can still block some of the salivae that come out when talking, sighing, or coughing and sneezing.

So, if used properly, this mask can still reduce the spread of the Coronavirus in the community, especially from people who are infected with the virus but don't have any symptoms.

Even so, while doing activities in a place where there are enough people, it would be nice to keep doing physical distancing even though you already wear a cloth mask. If you are sick with obvious coughing or sneezing symptoms, it's better to do self-isolation at home.

Also, it is not recommended to use a cloth mask twice. So, as much as possible wash the cloth mask every time you finish wearing it.

Surgical masks

Surgical masks or surgical masks are a type of disposable mask that is easy to find and are often used by medical personnel while on duty. Surgical masks are an effective choice to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus because they have a layer that can block saliva splashes.

Most surgical masks consist of 3 layers which have different functions, namely:

If you are sick, you should use a mask with these three functions because it is effective in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, such as Coronavirus infection.

Even though it is effective in blocking the Coronavirus, because of its dwindling stock, currently surgical masks are prioritized to protect medical personnel who work in health services or people who are sick to prevent transmission of the virus to other people.

N95 mask

The N95 mask is also effective in preventing transmission of the Coronavirus. Masks that tend to be more expensive than surgical masks are not only able to dispel saliva splashes, but also small particles in the air that may contain viruses.

Compared to surgical masks, the N95 mask feels tighter on the face because it has been designed to fit snugly against an adult's nose and mouth. For children, the use of this mask is not recommended because the size of the mask can be too large so that it cannot provide sufficient protection.

Although they have better protection, N95 masks are not recommended for daily use. This is due to its design which makes it difficult for people to breathe, it is stifling, and does not endure wearing it for a long time.

These masks are prioritized for use by medical personnel who have direct contact with people with COVID-19, for example, doctors and nurses who work in special isolation rooms for COVID-19 or in the emergency room.

How to Use the Correct Mask

Surgical masks and N95 masks can be used to prevent exposure to the Coronavirus. However, the benefits of these two masks will only be effective if you use them properly.

Here is a guide to using the correct mask:

• Make sure you wash your hands properly.
• If you are using a surgical mask, make sure that the outside is green and the inside is white.
• Attach the mask strap well. If the mask strap needs to be tied, tie the top first, then the bottom.
• Make sure the mask covers the nose, mouth, and chin perfectly. Also, make sure the metal part is on the bridge of the nose.
• Bend the metal strip along the curve of your nose so that there are no holes left.
• Avoid touching the center of the mask when using and removing the mask.
• Throw the mask in the trash and wash your hands thoroughly after using the mask.

Using a mask for the Coronavirus is effective at preventing transmission. Regardless of the type of mask, you must understand how to use it properly. Also, washing your hands is as important as wearing a mask. Always wash your hands after doing or touching something, especially in public places.

Besides all that, maintaining health and endurance is also important. If you have recently traveled to China or another country that has been infected with the Coronavirus, you should see a doctor for a health check, especially if you experience symptoms of cough, runny nose, fever, and shortness of breath.