Face masks and COVID
In one of the most candid articles I have read this year, Shannon Molloy points out the Medicare-funded alternative to wearing a mask. The numbers don't lie. As at today (July 27 2020) there are 16.1 million confirmed cases (with a daily increase of 284,000 from 26/07/2020) with 645,000 deaths (up by 6270 from the previous day) worldwide. Considering the annual death rate globally from influenza each year is around 389,000; to have nearly twice that in seven months is terrifying.
As Melbourne enters week three of lockdown 2.0, there's a lot of media attention on the mandatory use of face masks in the metro area and Mitchell Shire. In lieu of stage 4 restrictions, the intention of mandatory mask use is to reduce the R naught, or reproduction rate, of the coronavirus in Victoria. Adding mandatory mask use to existing public health controls including physical distancing, quarantine for suspected and known infections, good hand hygiene and cough etiquette is hoped to reduce the spread of the virus through community transmission.
A graph of the number of coronavirus cases in Victoria draws a picture of clear and present danger:
The World Health Organisation cites studies that demonstrate the use of a mask can "prevent the spread of infectious droplets from an infected person to someone else and potential contamination of the environment by these droplets".
So, are there any risks associated with wearing a mask?
For most people, the answer is simply 'no'. Babies, toddlers and anyone without the capacity to remove a mask without help should not wear a mask. Depending on the severity of condition, asthmatics or those with breathing difficulties, people with a heart condition or mental illness should also avoid wearing a mask.
The body is a marvellous creation and has the ability to adjust breathing rate to ensure oxygen levels are where they need to be to ensure optimal health. Even in humid conditions, masks do not meaningfully decrease oxygen levels in the body.
That said, a face mask can
Increase the humidity and temperature close to the skin due to the creation of a micro climate
Create a perception of discomfort
Increase breathing resistance
Result in itchiness, saltiness or tightness of the skin
There are a range of face mask options, including
Surgical face masks - regularly worn by dentists and doctors
Respirators or N95 masks - often associated with painting or handling toxic materials
Cotton or cloth face mask
Cotton or cloth masks are generally better for skin, lungs and the environment as they are not contributing to landfill. Cloth masks or face coverings are a simple barrier to protect against respiratory droplets entering your airways. If you are making your own mask, closely woven fabrics (like quilting cotton) are best. The best way to test this is to hold the fabric up to the light - the fewer holes, the better. Avoid stretchy knits.
The benefits of wearing a face mask are twofold - both for the wearer and the people around them. For the wearer, a mask act as a barrier to airborne droplets from other people. In the latter instance, masks are an effective source control as they prevent larger expelled droplets from evaporating into smaller droplets that can, due to their lighter weight, travel farther. It is important to note, however that you could still catch the virus through the membranes of your eyes; a risk that is not addressed by masks and is only mitigated with a full face shield.
Whether you choose cloth or disposable, the best mask is the one you can wear comfortably and consistently. Regardless of your choice of material, your mask should fit snugly over your mouth, nose and chin. Wash your hands before fitting a mask and avoid touching the front. Use the ear pieces to put the mask in place and press the nose piece, if present, firmly over the bridge of your nose to seal. Wash your hands again before removing a mask. If you are using a disposable mask, put the mask directly into a lidded bin. If you have a reusable mask wash it promptly to avoid the risk of cross contamination.
In combination with washing your hands and keeping your distance, wearing a mask will reduce your risk of both contracting and spreading coronavirus.
