Wear a face mask while you’re outside, that was Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s advice in a nationally televised address last Friday.
There are cities such as, Hong Kong, who have long implemented this practice. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) has dissuaded people who are healthy from wearing face masks.
Only necessary individuals such as health workers, those handling COVID-19 patients and people who were sick were advised to wear them.
While WHO is reviewing this advice, Singapore has reversed the earlier guidance and is now encouraging the public to don the masks when they are out of their homes. Here’s what you should take note of:
Source: The Straits Times
REASONS TO WEAR A MASK
New evidence suggests that infected people could spread the virus to others for two to three days before becoming unwell. This is according to Associate Professor Hsu Li Yang from Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health in the National University of Singapore. There are at least 10 cases of pre-symptomatic spread according to a Singapore study, published last week.
The Ministry of Health also shared that there is a possibility of some undetected COVID-19 cases in the community. These individuals may still be moving around and meeting others at work or in public spaces without realising that they are infectious. By wearing a mask, we can reduce the likelihood of spreading this virus even further.
Source: The Straits Times
RIGHT TIME TO WEAR A MASK
Apart from wearing a mask, the most important measure to take to avoid the spread of COVID-19 is physical distancing.
Nevertheless, it is impossible to constantly maintain physical distance from others. In this case, handwashing will be a helpful added measure to those who cannot avoid such situations such as taking public transport or when you are in a store to get basic necessities.
Singapore authorities have advised people to wear masks when they enter a crowded environment.
Source: Surgical masks (left) and N95 respirators (right). Looka/Shutterstock; Lunx/Shutterstock
WHICH MASK SHOULD I USE?
The N95 and surgical masks are the most effective to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. However, they are not reusable, and they might run out, worldwide. These masks should be reserved for healthcare staff and other frontline workers, who need them the most according to WHO.
If you do put on surgical masks, it is important to note that these masks should not be reused as its effectiveness is compromised when it becomes damp. They should be worn with the pleated side facing out.
On another hand, while cloth and paper masks are not as effective, various studies have shown that they do have a protective effect.
Source: Qoo10 ShieldMask+ Made In Singapore washable adults cloth face mask
HOW TO WEAR A CLOTH MASK?
Wearing cloth masks do serve as a form of protection. They should consist of multiple layers of fabric to fit snugly, comfortably and still allow breathing. They are reusable masks but they should be washed after each use.
Choose reusable cloth masks that can withstand washing and machine drying without damage or change to shape.
Ensure to avoid coming in contact with the eyes, nose, and mouth when taking off the mask. Wash hands thoroughly right after removing the mask.
Source: The Straits Times
WHERE TO COLLECT REUSABLE MASKS?
Singapore has sufficient supply of surgical masks as long as the nation uses them responsibly. The Government has announced that they are looking for new sources of masks and expediting shipment of masks along with other highly in demand items.
To protect our citizens further, reusable masks are distributed from 5 April till 12 April at Community Centres and Resident’s Committee Centres. You can collect them between 3pm and 9pm on weekdays and between 10am and 9pm on weekends and public holidays. You can also check out their website for more details.
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