The right way to wear a medical mask

Contrary to some highly circulated posts on social media, there is only one way to wear a mask. Since the Coronavirus outbreak, there have been many posts about there being two ways to wear surgical masks; blue/green-side out if you are infected, white-side out if you are trying to avoid getting infected. This is false.

There is only one way of wearing surgical masks. The coloured side is out, white stays inside.

A medical mask has 3 layers- a white layer, a colored layer, typically blue or green and a filter paper between the two. Wear the mask with the colored side facing out. The colored side is waterproof, and prevents any mucus, humidity or germs from the outside to seep into the mask. Place the white side towards your face. The white side is an absorbent that helps prevent discomfort from the humidity caused by breathing into something attached to your face.

Now that you know, follow the following steps, so you are secure from breathing in the unwanted.

Wash your hands before wearing the mask

Before picking up any mask, clean your hands meticulously with hand sanitizer or soap and water to avoid transferring germs onto the mask.

Secure the mask with the straps

Surgical masks either have ear loops, ties or bands. Your hands should not touch the mask as it may damage the fabric. Hold the straps to place the mask onto the face and secure it.

Avoid pulling the mask

Do not pull the mask down to the chin to converse with people or for other reasons and then pull it back up on your face. A mask should not be used more than once and has to be changed if it gets damaged or soiled.

Safely removing the mask

Do not touch the mask area during removal as it contains germs. Grab the straps to remove it. Seal the mask in a paper bag before throwing it in the bin to avoid contamination.

Sanitizing your hands one last time

Wash your hands thoroughly again with soap or sanitizer.

While surgical masks effectively prevent your illness from spreading to others, they are less helpful in protecting you against diseases, as the perimeters of the mask leave enough room for airborne viruses to sneak in. A NIOSH approved N95 Respirator would be more effective as it remains completely sealed over the face.