The pandemic is not over yet and global experts predict the upcoming third wave to be more dangerous. The breakthrough we achieved by developing the vaccines of high efficacy certainly brings hope and optimism. Unfortunately, for everyone to get vaccinated and gain complete immunity against the Covid-19 would take a long time. So, let us not be complacent during this critical stage. Now, it is a crucial time to increase vigilance and to adhere to the safety measures without any lapse.
STOPPING THE SPREAD STARTS WITH TAKING THE RIGHT STEPS
According to healthcare experts, the third wave of Covid-19 may hit India by the end of this year. The previous waves have renewed the panic amongst people, making them think harder on how to keep themselves safe from the virus. It is widely proven that selecting and proper using of right PPE can prevent you from the third wave of Covid-19 and even upcoming waves. So, wearing protective gear such as a face mask, face shield, gloves, kits etc., can protect you and those around you, even if you are fully vaccinated.
Stopping the spread starts with taking the right steps. As responsible manufacturers of personal protective equipment, it is our duty to provide the most accurate information to educate users with the right tools of safety.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT FACE MASK
Your face mask not only protects you but also helps protect those around you. One of the biggest challenges faced by users today is the quest to find the right mask.
Let us begin by understanding the difference between cotton masks, surgical masks and N95/FFP2 respirators. A cotton mask is a loose-fitted mask that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment. A surgical mask is a 3-ply mask meant to be used by medical personnel during procedures. N95 or FFP2 respirators, on the other hand, are personal protective equipment that protects the wearer from airborne particles and aerosols from entering the respiratory system.
The first step in selecting the right face mask for any user is to look for the correct certification on its packaging. In India, ISI Marked FFP2 certification is the most important to look out for. N95 is an American Certification provided by NIOSH (certifying body based in the USA) which is the equivalent to the ISI FFP2 standard. Both these certifications claim 94/95% filtering efficiency, which is most suited for protection against coronavirus.
The next important criterion is the mask should completely seal the mouth and nose to prevent any air leakage. The nose clip should be flexible enough to take the shape of the nose and you should be able to breathe properly.
An N95 or FFP2 Mask is recommended to be used for 12 cumulative hours. The mask can be reused multiple times until 12 hours of usage is achieved. After use, it should be properly disposed-off in a closed bin by tearing off its loops or headband to prevent reuse. Please refrain from washing the mask as it destroys the filtering fabric thereby making it ineffective against coronavirus.
Face masks when used in combination with other personal protective gears, can provide the most effective protection from any of the waves of Covid-19.
THE TAKEAWAY
We need to emphasise and promote practising safety protocols including social distancing, maintaining hand hygiene and wearing face masks even after getting vaccinated. Pandemic or not, face masks are here to stay and should consciously be made a part of our lives for the good health and safety of our loved ones.
Many started considering the third wave lightly and started showing utter disregard for the precautionary measures. Considering the speed of spread, we should not forget that the only way out is to obey the rules and wear the right certified PPEs. And most importantly, get vaccinated at the earliest since it reduces the possible complications in case you contract the virus. Encourage your friend and family also to take the vaccines without delay and to continue following the safety measure.
The writer is Co-founder and President, Global Marketing at KARAM Group and President of Safety Appliances Manufacturing Association (SAMA).