People used face masks in various situations to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. This is especially true in situations where droplets in the air, we all breathe, can transmit viruses or bacteria.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the usage of face masks became an important and preventive measure to slow down the spread of the virus. In many countries, wearing face masks is still mandatory by health authorities and governments.
The main purpose of wearing face masks was to prevent virus-containing respiratory droplets from becoming airborne and potentially infecting others. It was particularly important because COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets.
Wearing masks helped reduce the risk of unknowingly spreading the virus. Many people infected with the virus were asymptomatic (showing no symptoms) or pre-symptomatic (not yet showing symptoms), making it difficult to identify who might be contagious.
Face masks were effective not only in protecting the wearer but also in protecting others around them.
Simple fabric masks, surgical masks and N95 respirators are different types of recommended masks. N95 respirators were particularly effective at filtering out small airborne particles. These masks were available only in limited quantities, which is why they were often reserved for healthcare workers.
Face masks were mainly important in crowded or indoor settings where maintaining physical distance was challenging. Such as public transportation (buses, metros), stores, and workplaces.
Wearing a face mask was just one approach to reduce COVID-19. We should follouw some other preventive measures to lower the risk of virus such as:
Promoting hand hygiene, Maintaining physical distance, Avoiding large gatherings, and Vaccination, were also crucial.
Wearing masks became a visible symbol of collective responsibility and solidarity during the pandemic. People started showing mutual care and protected the vulneable people.
As scientists and health organizations learned more about the virus, guidance on mask usage evolved. Initially, there were questions about the effectiveness of masks, whether it is safe or not, but as evidence accumulated; the importance of masks became more widely recognized.
Government made efforts to educate the public about the proper use of masks, including how to wear them, how to handle them, and how to wash reusable masks. This was important to ensure that the masks were used effectively and safely.
Children under 3 years of age should not wear masks because they lack communication skills and may not be able to recognise when the mask is causing them discomfort or suffocation.
We all have a come a long way to overcome the virus by taking the preventive and precautionary measures. Remember that the situation regarding COVID-19 is slowly phasing out but it is important to remember the usage of face mask and stay updated with information from reliable health authorities and follow their recommendations.
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Made in India Ambygo® Face Masks