how to use a surgical mask

Mar 07
2020

Doctor Answers Your Coronavirus Questions | COVID-19 Protection Q&A

Recent guidelines from the World Health Organisation have suggested that we should all carry out strict hand hygiene. This means washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly for at least 30 seconds. Hard surfaces such as door handles, shopping baskets and even mobile phone screens harbour bacteria and viruses which can easily spread from one person to another propagating the virus.

Secondly, it has been suggested that we maintain a distance of at least 1 meter from anyone close by that could be coughing or sneezing. This is because when we sneeze, air droplets travel at a speed of around 100mph.

Thirdly, the WHO, NIOSH, FDA and CDC have all suggested that N95/P2 masks should be worn by those who are directly treating or managing suspected or confirmed coronavirus cases or if you yourself has symptoms of coronavirus.

Due to the worldwide shortage of masks, the CDC have recommended that the N95 masks can be used for up to 8 hours as long as they are not soiled, damp or wet as this can reduce the efficacy of the mask.

One of the commonest questions I am asked is whether these masks are reusable. These particular masks are disposable and after being worn they should be disposed in a closed bin and hands should be washed thoroughly. Similarly, it is not possible to wash the masks as they will loose their integrity.

If you are unable to get your hands on a mask and are concerned, then the CDC does recommend other masks such as; N99, N100, P95, P99, P100, R95 and R99. These are at least or more effective than the N95.

There are other larger and bulkier masks that are reusable, but do require disinfecting after use. They too come with filters varying from 95-99%. Such masks include - Elastometric Halt Face respirator and Powered Air Purifying Respirator (full face).

President Of America, Donald Trump recently had a meeting with the major pharmaceutical companies of the world and they have advised that they are currently working on a vaccine which will undergo human tests in April with a roll out of a vaccine by the end of the year.

The most important take away point from this video is to practice good habits with regular thorough hand hygiene. With this, we can stop the propagation of this virus.

WHERE TO BUY P2 MASKS

Amazon: https://vtudio.com/a/?a=p2+mask

Bunnings: http://bit.ly/bunningsp2

eBay: https://vtudio.com/a/?e=p2+mask

Officeworks: http://bit.ly/officeworksp2

COMPANION VIDEOS

How to Protect Yourself with Facial Masks: https://youtu.be/ftm6aKaf0IM

Novel Coronavirus: https://youtu.be/gJ9dQqfT0zY

Diagnosing Coronavirus: https://youtu.be/e1F0EyiR7eQ

Flu Season: https://youtu.be/vZBCL-PgarA

I hope you’ve found this video useful and always, if you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to drop me a line below.

Take care and stay healthy.