Don't be afraid of ovarian cysts
The use of double masks or two masks at the same time is now officially recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, there are still rules for using double masks that must be obeyed so that the protection you get is really effective.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, masks have become an attribute that must be worn to avoid transmission of the Corona virus. The use of masks previously recommended was only one mask, be it a surgical mask, a KN95 mask, or a cloth mask with special provisions. However, now people are urged to increase self-protection by wearing double masks.
Effectiveness of Double Mask in Warding Viruses
Recent research shows that the use of double masks can prevent transmission of COVID-19 more effectively than using one mask alone, even though the mask used is a surgical mask.
In this study, it was stated that surgical masks can block airborne particles that have the potential to transmit the Coronavirus as much as 84.3%. However, when you double it with a cloth mask, the protection can increase up to 96.4%.
This is because surgical masks are usually placed loosely and still leave a gap above the nose and on the cheeks. As a result, there are still air particles and droplets that can enter from this gap. In addition, the loose surgical mask sags easily under the nose.
Unlike surgical masks, cloth masks are generally adjustable and fit snugly on the face. Therefore, the combination of a surgical mask and a cloth mask can provide better protection.
How to Use Double Mask Correctly
The use of double masks must also be done in the right way in order for it to work effectively. Here's how to use a double mask correctly:
- Use a surgical mask as a first layer.
- Make sure the thin wire that is on the top of the surgical mask is pressed against your face, so that it conforms to the shape of your nose.
- Cover the surgical mask with a cloth mask consisting of 3 layers of cloth. Wear a cloth mask that fits perfectly.
- Make sure the strap or cloth mask band is securely attached to the ears or tied around the back of the head.
- Try to exhale and feel if there is still air flowing from the top and sides of the mask. If it's still there, readjust the position and tighten the mask.
- Make sure you can still breathe comfortably and don't feel dizzy or lightheaded from wearing this double mask.
Just like using masks in the normal way, surgical masks still have to be thrown away after one use, even if they are covered by a cloth mask. Meanwhile, cloth masks can still be used again, but they must be washed first until they are clean.
It is important to note that the double mask recommended here is only a combination of a surgical mask and a cloth mask. Do not cover a surgical mask with any other surgical mask, as this will not provide better protection.
Also, not all types of masks can be concurrent, for example the KN95 mask. This type of mask already has the ability to filter air high so it doesn't need to be coated with another type of mask.
As for children, using a double mask is not recommended because it can make it difficult for children to breathe.
Other Ways to Make Masks More Effective
If you don't feel comfortable wearing a double mask, you can trick a surgical mask so that it fits snugly to your face. The method is as follows:
- Fold the surgical mask in half, so that the top and bottom meet.
- Tie the mask hook straps on the left and right to form a knot near the mask.
- Fold the corners of the mask inward.
- Put on the mask, then press the wire so that it follows the shape of the nose so that there is no gap between the mask and the face.
Another way is to use mask fitters or mask braces on the outside of the surgical mask to support and press the mask so that there is no gap between the face and the mask.
The use of a double mask can better protect you from exposure to the Corona virus. However, don't forget that this is just one of the ways that need to be done to prevent COVID-19.
Besides wearing a mask properly, you also need to do physical distancing, avoid crowds, wash your hands regularly, and get the COVID-19 vaccine to protect yourself and those around you from illness this.
If you still have questions regarding the use of masks and other preventive measures, or any questions regarding the COVID-19 disease, do not hesitate to consult a doctor. You can also chat directly with the doctor on the ALODOKTER app.
Label : Health
Comments
Post a Comment