In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of facemasks has become a part of everyday life. Since then, the market is flooded with different types of masks. This has triggered concerns and debates among people, regarding the masks available in the market. Some say many are not aware of the effectiveness of different types of masks.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), surgical masks are highly effective in preventing the virus. It also states that people should choose masks based on their material, filtration, and breathability. It should be three-layered, whereby the inner layer should be of absorbent material like cotton and that the middle and the outer layer should be non-absorbent.
Simplifying it further, Health Minister Dechen Wangmo said, ”if it is difficult to breathe with a mask on while walking or working, then that is a good mask.’’ On contrary, the minister added that if it is easy to breathe under the same condition, then the mask is not very protective.
With heightened risk from the virus, the minister reiterated that it is important to choose the right quality of the mask. Likewise, the minister, said proper usage of masks is also equally important.
”If it’s a cloth mask, it should be washed after use, and single-use mask should be disposed-off properly in a designated place,’’ added the minister.
Besides wearing a face mask, people are also advised to regularly wash hands with soap and water and practice physical distancing.
Kinley Dem
