Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of masks has increased worldwide. Many of us, when leaving our homes, use face masks and covers with the purpose of avoiding and preventing contagion. But, are we using the masks correctly?

Read on to learn the correct use and handling of your reusable mask according to recent guidelines recommended by the CDC.

The CDC recommends using reusable face masks and cloth face covers in public places where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, especially in areas of significant community transmission (For example: Pharmacies and Supermarkets).

Recommended Facial Covers No   are surgical masks (regular disposable masks)   nor N-95 respirators as these are critical supplies that should be reserved for medical personnel and services   first AIDS.

Wear a surgical mask for better protection when:

• You are sick and you have to be around other people
• You are healthy and you are going to a crowded area (eg pharmacies or supermarkets) or to a place with sick people.

How to wear a mask.

Masks or masks must:

• Fit snug but comfortable against the side of the face.
• Secure with ties or elastic at the ears.
• include multiple layers of fabric.
• allow unrestricted breathing.
• be able to machine wash and dry without damage or shape change.

How do I safely remove a used fabric mask?

You must be careful when removing the mask after you use it.

It is of utmost importance to remember:

• Do not touch your eyes, nose and mouth when removing face covering
• Wash your hands immediately after removing the mask.

Should cloth masks be washed or cleaned regularly? How often?

Yes, Reusable masks must be washed frequently.

• We recommend that they be washed after each use.
• Any type of mask should not be used for a long time. When it gets wet, you need to replace it. So if you sweat a lot, have replacement masks.

How to safely sterilize or clean a mask?

Washing your mask by hand or machine with soap and water is enough to disinfect it.

After washing your mask, store in the sun or tumble dry.

Masks should not be disinfected with alcohol or chlorine solutions   because they can damage the filter fibers or retain gases that are harmful to health. Microwave use is also not suitable.

Are the masks effective?

Reusable Masks can be a very favorable tool in the eradication of this virus by protecting us from external contaminants. But only if we use them correctly. It is important that we use them responsibly so that their use is not counterproductive for our health and that of our loved ones.

Remember that the mask individually will not prevent contagion, we must be diligent and strict when it comes to washing our hands and disinfecting the surfaces we frequent. Home hygiene and home entry and exit protocols are crucial to keeping us safe and healthy.

Stay home. Wash your hands. Stay healthy.

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Do you wash your mask frequently? If you do, what techniques do you use to disinfect it?

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