The COVID-19 virus can spread from one person to another through small respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person exhales, sneezes, or coughs. You will get infected too once you inhale these droplets.

Moreover, infected respiratory droplets can get on surfaces and various objects. If you touch contaminated surfaces or objects and then touch your mouth, nose, or eyes, you can get infected. There are also other ways on how coronavirus is transmitted aside from the ones we have mentioned.

The global personal protective equipment market size is projected to reach $92.86 billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period. Skyrocketing demand for PPE to protect frontline healthcare personnel from COVID-19 will surge the market growth during the current year, observes Fortune Business Insights™ in its new report.

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To avoid getting infected, we will be giving you ways on how to protect yourself from the virus. We will also discuss some tips on how to use face masks properly. Let us start with the types of facemasks you can use in the next section.

Types of Face Masks for COVID-19 Protection

#1 Homemade Cloth Face Masks

Homemade face masks created from cloth do not provide that much protection. But, they can help in preventing the coronavirus from spreading from asymptomatic persons. We recommend using one when you go to public areas like groceries. Don’t forget to practice proper hygiene and social distancing.

#2 Surgical Masks
These disposable face masks have loose fits. They cover your mouth, chin, and nose. They are recommended to:

  • Protect you from large droplets, sprays, and splashes
  • Prevent asymptomatic persons from spreading the virus

Surgical face masks are the commonly used types of face masks for COVID-19 protection nowadays. This increased the market for surgical face masks.

#3 N95 Respirators
These are used to protect yourself against respiratory droplets that are smaller like those containing the COVID-19 virus. But, only healthcare workers should use this because:

  • They can only be used properly after being fit-tested. If the seal created is poor, this can result in leakage which lowers the effectiveness of the respirator.
  • Because of the tight fit of the N95 respirator, they can be stuffy and uncomfortable. This makes them hard to wear for a long time.
  • There is only a limited supply of these masks so they should only be meant for healthcare workers.

Other Ways for COVID-19 Prevention

Aside from using a face mask, you can prevent COVID-19 infection by doing the following:

  • Wash your hands often using soap and water. You can also use hand sanitizers.
  • Practice social distancing. Do not go near sick people. Better yet, you should stay inside your home.
  • Do not touch your mouth or face too often.
  • Use professional disinfection for your home and office. By cleaning and disinfecting you can protect yourself from the virus.   

Proper Usage of Surgical Masks for COVID-19 Infected People

If you are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms, we recommend that you isolate yourself in your home. Wear a face mask if you are living with other people or are visiting the hospital. Below are the steps on how to use surgical masks properly:
  • First is to make sure that your hands are clean. Wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer.
  • Inspect your mask for any holes or tears before wearing it.
  • Locate the mask’s metal strip on its top.
  • The colored face of the mask should be oriented outward.
  • Place the mask’s metal strip on your nose bridge. Mold it so that it fits your nose’s shape.
  • You can either tie the mask on the back of your head or loop its elastic bands on your ears.
  • Pull the mask’s bottom part down to ensure that the mask covers your chin, mouth, and nose.
  • Avoid touching your mask while you are wearing it. Make sure that you wash your hands or apply hand sanitizer after touching or adjusting your mask.
  • If you want to take off your mask, make sure not to touch its front portion because this might be contaminated.
  • Dispose your mask properly in a garbage bin and wash your hands after.

You can buy surgical masks from grocery stores or drug stores. You can also order them from a mask supplier.

How to Use Face Masks During this Coronavirus Pandemic

Here are a few best practices you can follow regarding face masks in the midst of this coronavirus pandemic:

  1. Let first responders and healthcare workers use N95 respirators. Buy other types of masks.
  2. Wear surgical masks if you are ill or are taking care of someone who cannot wear one.
  3. Don’t reuse surgical masks because they are disposable.
  4. Replace surgical masks if they become damp or damaged.
  5. Always discard surgical masks in closed garbage bins after removing them.
  6. Make sure to wash your hands before wearing a surgical mask and after taking it off.
  7. In case you accidentally touched your mask’s front portion, clean your hands.

Conclusion
Being aware of some important precautionary measures can be effective in keeping yourself safe in this COVID-19 pandemic. Wearing face masks is always recommended, especially when going to public areas. But, it is also important that you know how to properly use one to ensure maximum protection.