Make a fashion statement with the style of your mask

Since last Monday facemasks are mandatory on public transport. Those who refuse could face fines of up to €2,500 – and up to six months behind bars. So that’s a bit of a reality check.

Up to now the local advice was that the masks should be left to the healthcare professionals and using one may stop individuals from doing the basic hygiene stuff like coughing and sneezing into the sleeve and handwashing.

Now it’s changed. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) last month reviewed the latest scientific evidence on the use of face masks in the community and  that their use by people who are asymptomatic may help reduce the spread of infection in the community.

This is done by minimising the excretion of respiratory droplets from infected individuals, who may not even know they are infected and before they develop symptoms.

The Irish Government are advising us to wear them in situations where social distancing is not possible such as inside shops and shopping centres.

The mask or face covering should cover both the nose and mouth and go under the chin and fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face.

Before putting on a mask or face covering, clean hands with alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water.

Some masks come with or have a space for a filter. Replace the filter for every wear.

Avoid touching the mask while using it. If you do, clean your hands thoroughly. To remove the mask, remove it from behind, not touching the front of mask.

When wearing a cotton mask, replace the mask with a clean, dry one if it becomes damp. Do not re-use single-use masks.

Reusable masks should include at least two layers of fabric and allow for breathing without restriction.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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