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Here’s Why Wearing A Mask Will Not Protect You From The New Coronavirus

Face masks will not protect you from the new coronavirus as indicated by the World Health Organization.

Unfortunately, there is too much fake news around the world about the novel coronavirus. So called ‘experts’ upload videos to YouTube or write articles on their blog on how to stay safe from the coronavirus. However, there is not a hint of a truth. It is just done with the intention of getting clicks on their blog and views on their videos.

Apart from generating clicks or views, many tried to sell medicine or other forms of treatment claiming to be effective against the virus. Even the World Health Organization (WHO) was forced to intervene. They issued various statements regarding the fake news surrounding the novel coronavirus. The WHO along with national governments are calling on social media websites to curtail the spread of fake news.

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Fake News Related to the New Coronavirus

Here’s a look at some of the most mind-boggling things people came up with.

Use Hand Dryers

The WHO has made it clear that using hand dryers is not effective against fighting coronavirus. Instead, regularly wash your hands preferably with an alcohol-based sanitizer or soap. Thoroughly dry your hands afterwards with paper towel.

Use Alcohol & Chlorine on your Body

Alcohol & chlorine are not effective if the virus is already in your system. Spraying yourself with these two substances can be harmful to your eyes, mouth, nose etc. However, they can be used to disinfect belongings and surfaces. Nevertheless, make sure to use in a prescribed manner and in the right quantity.

Eat Garlic

Garlic is no doubt quite healthy. But there is no evidence or research which suggests that garlic is effective in fighting against the coronavirus.

Use Antibiotics

Antibiotics are only effective against fighting bacteria & not viruses. The 2019-nCoV or the new coronavirus is a virus! Therefore, there is no point in using antibiotics against it.

Use Chemical Disinfectants

Chemical disinfectants can kill a virus on the surface. However, using these disinfectants on your skin can be quite harmful to you.

Now, let’s discuss another piece of news that is gaining quite the momentum – face masks can protect against coronavirus.

Can Face Masks Help Protect Against the New Coronavirus?

No! A regular surgical mask will not protect you against the new coronavirus. Surprisingly, people are rushing to buy face masks for themselves & their pets. But they do not understand that it is pointless to do so. Use face masks only if you are taking care of a person infected with the coronavirus, according to the WHO. Also, if you are continuously sneezing or coughing, use a mask. CDC coronavirus instructions are similar as well.

There are some requirements to keep in mind if you are going to be using a mask.

Things to Keep in Mind While Wearing a Face Mask

  • A mask is useless if you do not engage in frequent hand cleaning (alcohol-based sanitizer or soap)
  • Before wearing a mask, wash your hands thoroughly.
  • There should be no gap between the face & the mask.
  • Do not touch the mask while you are using it.
  • While removing the mask, touch from behind. Do not touch the front part of the mask.
  • Throw it away in a closed bin.
  • Wash hands immediately afterwards.

Now, many of you will be asking about the N95 respirator or N95 surgical mask which is gaining quite the prominence.

What is the N95 Respirator Mask?

The N95 respiratory mask is a special respiratory protective device which filters out airborne particles. It prevents particles from entering into your respiratory system. The mask is a tight facial fit meaning that people with certain types of facial hair cannot wear it. The 95 means that the mask blocks out 95% of the particles which come into contact with it. However, wearing a N95 mask requires ample training.

The wearer must know how to properly wear the mask. The mask has to fit tightly around the nose, chin, and cheeks for it to be effective. In many countries around the world, people who must wear N95 masks are required to undertake annual fitness tests. The reason is that the masks are so tight that it makes breathing quite difficult. Also, due to the tightness, heat builds up making breathing even more difficult.

The mask is no doubt more effective than the standard face or surgical mask. Even then, it is no guarantee that it will protect you from the virus. After all, you cannot wear it permanently as it is extremely uncomfortable. Also, if you are going to unnecessarily buy a N95 mask, it means that people who really need it (e.g. healthcare workers, patients) will find it difficult to get one. So, don’t act in a hasty manner and cause a shortage. Act responsibly! If you feel that you are anyone around you is exhibiting coronavirus symptoms, contact your nearest health center.

Coronavirus Symptoms

The coronavirus symptoms are similar to a common cold. The common symptoms include:

  • Runny nose
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Coughing
  • Headache

Please note that people with a weakened immune system might suffer from pneumonia, bronchitis or other severe respiratory tract illnesses.

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Rao Osama Liaqat
Rao Liaqat

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