Outside of China, there is a heated debate in several countries about whether the general public should be encouraged to wear masks. Each country is developing guidelines and guidance for its citizens that are tailored to local conditions.
In China, since the outbreak of the 2019 coronavirus disease outbreak, the government has published guidelines that include a requirement for the public to wear masks in public places. In response, WHO has encouraged countries that have taken similar measures, including China, to conduct scientific studies on whether wearing masks helps contain 2019 coronavirus disease so that outsiders can learn from the experience.
However, is it enough to wear a mask to protect us from the virus? Over time, we have observed in communities, parks, and on the streets of China to see how people behave with masks on. However, we have seen many examples that prove that the masks alone are not enough to contain the virus.
Along with wearing a mask, you must take other protective measures, including washing your hands regularly, disinfecting surfaces, etc. People need to learn how to put on and take off the mask properly. Not strictly following the correct way is obviously not enough.
First, if you wear a mask but do not wash your hands frequently or touch your face with unwashed hands, you are still at risk of getting the virus.
Second, if you wear a mask but take it off and spit, if you wear a mask but take it off when you sneeze or cough, or if you touch your child's mask, face or hair without washing your hands, you may even become a transmitter of the virus.
Third, if you wear a mask but don't put it on or take it off properly, you're still at risk of being infected by the virus. After more than two months of staying at home and keeping our distance, we are now all ready to get outside and enjoy the sunshine, fresh air and some of our usual routines. But at the same time, we should also be aware that the presence of the virus and the threat of a resurgence is still a risk that cannot be ignored.
The main form of transmission of 2019 coronavirus disease at present is still through droplets and contact with surfaces contaminated by droplets.
So the best way to protect us from the new coronavirus remains the same from start to finish.
Wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based waterless hand sanitizer, wash your hands, and wash your hands again
Regularly disinfect items that you come in contact with on a daily basis
Maintain a distance of 1 meter or more in social situations
Don't touch your eyes or mouth or nose with unwashed hands (even if you're wearing a mask)
Bend your elbows or use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
