Masks and COVID19 Prevention  

College of DuPage Nursing Student Danielle McKay wrote for Healthy Lombard that wearing the appropriate mask can decrease the spread of COVID19. The CDC website outlines how to select the right mask and how to wear the mask properly.

How to select a mask

When selecting a mask make sure the mask has two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric. The mask should completely cover the nose and mouth. Lastly, the mask should fit snugly against the sides of your face with no gaps. Gaiters and face shields are still being evaluated for their effectiveness and their effectiveness is unknown at this time.

How to wear a mask

The mask should not be worn around the neck, on the forehead, under the nose, only on the nose, on the chin, dangling from one ear or on the arm. N95 masks are recommended for medical professionals. N95 masks with valves do not protect those around you. The valves are closed when the breather breathes in and opens when the breather breathes out. This allows unfiltered air and droplets to escape. Chin-Hong said that anyone wearing a valve mask would need to wear a surgical mask or cloth mask to cover it. 

Why is wearing a mask successful?

According to Rutherford masks can reduce the spread of COVID by 80%. The Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation suggests that 33,000 deaths could be avoided by October 1 if 95% of people wore a mask in public.

Reference

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html

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