1/7 There is a lot of discussion on use of face masks. It can help to break the discussion into two main considerations regarding the TYPE of mask & the conditions for safe USE of masks in different circumstances/settings. #COVID19
2/7 MEDICAL MASKS for #healthcare workers in patient care settings is PRIORITY #1 – we MUST conserve these masks for use by & ONLY by #healthcare workers or others providing direct care to #COVID19 patients.
3/7 NON-MEDICAL MASKS (e.g. homemade face masks) may stop you from touching your nose and mouth. A non-medical mask could help maintain #coughetiquette by covering your cough if you are ill or have early symptoms of #COVID19. BUT BEWARE:
4/7 ⚠️ In order to avoid getting infected with or spreading #COVID19, when you wear a face mask: it should be well-fitted (no gaps) & you must practice #goodhygiene before, during & after wearing it. #WashYourHands
5/7 ⚠️ Know that masks can become contaminated on the outside, or when touched by your hands. Avoid touching your face mask while using it, wash & disinfect if fabric or discard & replace it with a new mask as soon as it gets damp. #COVID19
6/7 ⚠️ Remember that you can also become infected if the virus enters the mucus membranes of your eyes. Do NOT touch or rub your eyes, especially after touching your face mask that could be contaminated with the virus. #COVID19
7/7 ⚠️ Non-medical masks alone will not prevent #COVID19 spread. You must consistently and strictly adhere to #goodhygiene & #publichealth measures, including frequent #handwashing and #PhysicalDistancing (2 metres). #WashYourHands to be protected.
