From finding rare faces with masks to depending on the same, we all have come a long way. Earlier, it was a pollution that introduced us to masks then came a deadly virus i.e. NOVEL CORONAVIRUS which is creating new waves of fear in us with the new strain. With the increasing demand for masks, came a range of masks with different features and qualities leaving us all in disarray. On top of that, different myths are being spread here and there with unknown questions about whether it is necessary to wear masks or if it’s just a rule that should be followed. Therefore, to relieve you from all this chaos we are here to answer all your questions and clear all your doubts.

Why do we need to wear a mask?

Novel coronavirus is a virus that spreads through water droplets, such as coughing, sneezing, or while speaking. And to protect ourselves from the same we need to wear masks. By wearing masks, we not only secure ourselves but also others including our family and friends. But masks cannot provide us overall protection from the coronavirus. We need to follow all the precautions as directed by health organizations that are:

·       Wear masks

·       Use sanitizer

·       Maintain social distancing

There are 4 types of masks we get to see:

1.     N95 mask with valve

2.     N95 mask without valve

3.     Surgical mask

4.     Cotton/ cloth mask

Myths and facts about masks

·       Oxygen depletion, increase in intake of carbon dioxide

Continuous use of a mask may lead to breathing discomfort but it doesn’t deplete intake of oxygen or increase carbon dioxide retention.

·       Wearing a mask is not necessary

Other than the fact that there are penalties of huge amounts in different regions, it is necessary for our health to protect ourselves from the virus and it is part of that precautionary process that we need to follow. It prevents the virus from reaching us by filtering the air and blocking the path of the infectious microorganisms and it also confines the reach of the virus. 

·       Masks and social distancing

Social distancing is another part of the process of safeguarding ourselves from coronavirus as already mentioned. Just because we are wearing masks doesn’t mean we need not maintain social distancing. As time passed, we somehow started taking the virus very lightly and started ignoring the precautions we should be following. With the coming of new strain, things have become more serious and therefore, till the moment doctors and other health professionals get deep into the new strain we need to follow the basic guidelines advised by the Government of India.

·       N95 with or without valve

N95 signifies that it filters out 95% of the microorganisms. There are two types of N95 masks one with breathing valves that prevent humidity and is breathable but the problem that comes with it is that it’s safe for the wearer but not good for other people because it filters out the air coming from outside but it doesn’t filter the air or infected air which is inside the mask. This makes the N95 masks without valves more suitable for everyone.

·       For how long a mask can be used

1.     N95 masks can’t be reused

2.     Surgical masks- 8 hours (it can’t be reused)

3.     Cotton/cloth masks- can be used again but need to be washed daily (preferably in warm water)

·       Cotton/cloth masks

Being comfortable and fashionable are the reasons this is one of the most demanded masks in the market but the fact is, it doesn’t provide proper protection because it does protect us from pollution but it doesn’t work on the virus.

·       Why Masks should not be touched

Yes, they are a little discomforting and that’s why we keep touching them for different reasons like loose masks; itching on the face or ears; fogging on the spectacles; moisture/wetness on the mouth etc. but we should avoid touching the masks for two reasons:

1.     Our hands could be infected.

2.     There are chances the air particles on the mask are infectious.

Wearing a mask is as important as it is to maintain a healthy immune system. We need to wear it not just to avoid penalty, but for our safety. It isn’t known as the Covid shield layer just like that. But we should invest in masks very carefully by keeping all these things in mind. When it comes to buying masks, the 3Se range of masks by KEE HEALTHCARE which is a subsidiary of KEE PHARMA, provides not just quality but efficiency as KEE PHARMA believes in providing the best quality with efficacy. It has key features like anti-fogging, provides proper fitting with a nose clip, easily adjustable. Stay safe wash/sanitize your hands, maintain social distancing, wear masks properly and most importantly be aware.