Life with Chronic Conditions: Proper Masking can help stop Omicro

In the past week I’ve talked to people who’ve had breakthrough Covid-19, though they were vaccinated and boosted, wore masks in public places, and tested before going to family Christmas gatherings. So how did they become infected?

 

When asked about masking habits, they had one in the car they’d grab, in the side pocket of their purse or elsewhere that was used over and over again. Depending on the person, it may have been a cloth mask or a surgical one that was a bit raggedy. Maybe most important, they’d take the mask off and not wash their hands.

 

Covid is transmitted through mucous membranes in the mouth, nose and eyes. Research shows we touch our face about 23 times per hour, of which 44% come in contact with mucous membranes. We do it without thinking. Rub our eyes, scratch an itchy nose, adjust glasses and the list goes on.

 

The omicron variant is highly transmissible. If the virus is on your mask, it’s easy to get it on your hands when you remove it. If you don’t immediately wash your hands, chances are you’ll have touched your face before you’ve washed up.  

 

Follow the steps below to achieve maximum mask effectiveness:

• Wash your hands before and after touching the mask

• Only touch the bands or ties when putting on and taking off your mask

• Make sure the mask covers you mouth and nose. If you make adjustments, wash your hands before and after.

• Recommended masks

-       The best protection is a properly fitting N95s, KN95s, KF94s.

-       Surgical masks can be worn and give the best protection if fitted properly and using a mask brace.

-       Note that face brackets (worn under the mask) have been found to lessen the effectiveness of the mask.

-       Double masking-a surgical mask covered by a cloth mask-works.

-       Wearing bandanas, gaiters, masks exhalation valves, or clear shield like face masks are not recommended.

• Don’t touch your or your child’s mask while it is being worn.

• Don’t wear the mask under your chin with your nose and mouth exposed

• Don’t remove the mask while around others in public

• Don’t share your mask with others

• Have hand sanitizer readily available so it’s easy to clean your hands before and after applying a mask. Make a habit of using hand sanitizer when entering and exiting public spaces such as the grocery store.