From watching some rare faces with masks to getting dependent on the same we all have come a long way. Earlier, it was pollution that introduced us to masks then came a deadly virus we all are already aware of i.e. NOVEL CORONAVIRUS which is creating new waves of fear in us. With the coming of new strains and an increase in the 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 all the fuss about whether it is necessary to wear masks or it’s just a rule to follow. 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?

The novel coronavirus is a virus that spreads through water droplets like through coughing, sneezing, or speaking. And to protect ourselves from the same we need to wear masks for ourselves and others. By wearing a mask, 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

Some myths & 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 fine of huge amounts in different regions, it is necessary for our health, to protect ourselves from the virus and it’s the part of that caution that we need to take.

• ·       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 needed to take. 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 GOI.

• ·       N95 with or without valve

N95 signifies that it filters out 95% of the microorganisms. There are two types of N95 masks.

1.     Mask with Valve: It has breathing valves that prevent humidity and are breathable. However, it is not considered good as it filters the outer air for the wearer but also releases the infected air which makes it harmful for people around the wearer.

2.     Mask without Valve: A mask without a valve filters out the microorganisms from the inside out, however, it is not comfortable for people with breathing problems as it can cause the feeling of suffocation.

• ·       For how long a mask can be used

1.     N95 masks-1 day (it 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 however, it doesn’t provide proper protection as 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.  However, touching your mask will spread the viruses and bacteria on your hand which are easily transferrable putting you and the ones around you more at risk.

Wearing a mask is as important as it is to eat and follow a proper diet. We need to wear it not just to avoid penalties but for our safety. It isn’t known as the Covid shield layer without any reason. But we should invest in masks very carefully.  Keeping that in mind, 3Se masks by KEE PHARMA provide not just quality but also efficiency as KEE PHARMA believes in providing the best quality with efficacy. It has qualities/features like anti-fogging, provides proper fitting with a nose clip, easily adjustable.  3Se includes a variety of masks and one of their best mask is the Raksha mask with 3-ply protection. Stay safe wash/sanitize your hands, maintain social distancing, wear masks properly, and most importantly be aware.