Health and family welfare department in view of the coronavirus threat has issued advisory to common people on use of mask. The advisory states when to use mask, period of using single mask, correct process of use and its disposal.
The advisory states that coronavirus infection is spreading as epidemic due to which more than 100 countries have been affected where as in India more than 60 have been suspected of carrying the virus. Symptoms include normal cough and cold but in a few days it takes critical stage. As it spread through sneezing and coughing, one should keep a distance of one metres to prevent infection. Those persons having no symptom of fever even after having cough and cold can avoid mask. A healthy person can also avoid using mask.
Health department advisory states instead of mask, cleaning hand up to 40 seconds using soap or using alcohol based (70%) sanitizer up to 20 second, covering nose and mouth using tissue paper or handkerchief, keeping away from touching nose, eyes and face, avoiding public places, regularly checking body temperature and taking doctor’s advice if having cough and fever can help better prevention.
Advisory states mask can be used if person is having cough and fever, while visiting hospital, taking care of any patient, coming possible closer to positive patient or patient’s family members.
The mask if properly worn can be effective for 8 hours and if it gets wet it should be changed. Mask should be fitted properly on nose, mouth and chin including the nose bridge. The mask should not be touched on regular basis or allow it to keep in neck. Disposable mask should not be used second time and after use should be disposed off. The used mask has to be disposed of after disinfecting it with 5% mixture of bleaching powder or one percent sodium hypo-chloride. It should be burnt or put it in a deep pit and covered with mud.