The face mask – its role in prevention of COVID-19

Abstract

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is causing huge morbidity and mortality throughout the world. Wearing face masks is an important strategy for its prevention, along with hand washing, using alcohol-based sanitizer and physical distancing. In the absence of AGPs (Aerosol Generating Procedures), health workers providing direct care to COVID-19 patients should wear a medical mask. In settings where AGPs are performed (e.g. COVID-19 intensive and semi-intensive care units), health workers should wear respirator masks (N95 or FFP2 or FFP3 standard). Respirators can be reused up to five times assuming there is no soiling and minimal to no viral contamination of the mask. Cloth face masks are advised in public settings. It is crucial to wear, remove and dispose of masks appropriately for maximum protection. With disposable masks becoming an impending threat to nature, reusable LEAF masks with long lasting filters offer a promising solution to protect our environment.

Keywords

• Masks, Coronavirus, Prevention