Since the outbreak of this drastic pandemic, it has become the new normal to walk around with face masks as a way to protect oneself from getting infected with the corona virus.

There are a lot of things we are yet to learn about face masks, and here, I would like to take you through some of these.

What Is The Importance Of A Face Mask?

The face mask , is a great tool in controlling the spread of any airborne illnesses and contaminants. However, just because you are wearing a mask doesn't mean that you are completely out of danger.

You have to apply other measures of ensuring you are safe from any contaminants. These include washing of hands, sanitizing and maintaining social distance.

There are two major types of face masks; surgical masks and N95 masks

Surgical Masks.

This is also called the medical mask. They are loose-fitting disposal masks that are used to protect one's mouth and nose from contacting droplets, spray or splashes that may be contaminated. These masks are also capable of filtering large particles suspended in the air. They are useful in protecting the people around the user of the mask from contacting air and fluid secretions from the user of the mask.

N95 Masks

Unlike the surgical masks, the N95 masks are able to filter out both small and large particles, hence offering more protection. It filters 95% of the small particles in the air that the user inhales. Some have valves that make it easier to breathe through.

Some precautions on face masks include;

• Don't use a face mask as a substitute for social distancing. As I already pointed it out above, the face mask is not an assurance of safety.
• Don't put masks on children under the age of 2 years as this could make it hard for them to breathe.
• Don't put the mask on anyone who has trouble breathing, or unconscious. i.e.; someone who will need help removing the mask.
• Always make sure you have it with you.
• Wash your mask as often as possible. It is advisable to have several so that you always have a clean one available when needed.
• Don't pull down your mask to talk. Sometimes the mask might make communication harder since one may not hear you clearly. However pulling it down counters the whole purpose of wearing it in the first place.
• Make sure it fits. Make sure you are comfortable in the mask and you can breathe comfortably. It therefore needs to fit snugly especially around your cheeks and at the bridge of your nose.
• It should cover your mouth and nose. If it doesn’t, then it does not fulfill its intended purpose.
• Do not play around with your mask. Treat your mask like a dirty object, because it actually could be. Before and after using your mask. Wash your hands with soap and water.

         Adjusting To A Face Mask

Most of us have probably never used a face mask before and we might find it hard to use one even now that it is a necessity. Most of us even tend to forget them and remember only when we see people around us using them. It is therefore important that we try to use the mask as often as possible so that we get used to it as part of us, since it sadly is.