HOW TO WEAR A MASK CORRECTLY
1. Before you begin, wash your hands to ensure your hands are safe. You can view our video on Correct Handwashing Technique which follows the World Heath Organisation guidelines for hand hygiene.
2. Put your mask on the correct way around - there is a correct side. For surgical masks, it is usually coloured side out
3. Ensure the stiff edge is up as it is designed to bend to conform around your nose bridge for a good seal
4. Ensure the mask is covering both your nose and mouth completely
5. The mask should conform to your face and sit comfortably
6. Wash your hands before placing the mask on, adjusting the mask and removing your mask
7. When removing or adjusting your mask, try to only touch it from the ear loops
8. Wash hands
MASK DON’TS
Avoid only covering your mouth with your mask, as this will leave your nose exposed to droplets and aerosols.
Avoid wearing your mask on your chin as this will provide you with no protection at all.
DIRTY HANDS SPREAD INFECTION
Be aware of all the surfaces you touch throughout the day, like your phone . If you have touched any droplets on your phone, and then you touch your mask and your face you are spreading the organisms around your mask and your face.
Instead of using a mask to protect your face, the mask will act as a vessel for holding organisms closer to your eyes, nose and mouth and increasing your risk of infection.
So remember to wash your hands any time you touch your mask. And try to only touch your mask from the ear loops.
Dr Lufi and Dr Leah
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