As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds, official advice and data is consistently altering, and it can be troublesome to remain on high of the latest information.
At this level, it is probably that you’ve got seen some conflicting details about who needs to wear a mask, and whether masks can actually do anything to protect you from the coronavirus.
It is essential to be sure to’re getting the latest data, to make sure that you are protecting your self and your neighborhood adequately with out hoarding resources in brief supply. Here is the latest advice on whether or not it’s necessary to wear a mask to protect yourself or your neighborhood from COVID-19.
Who needs to wear a masks proper now?
Between February 1, when this article was first published, and April three, when this article was last up to date, the advice about masks issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Australian Government Department of Health has not changed.
Proper now, each the WHO and the Australian government say that healthy folks do not have to wear a surgical mask.
“Most individuals will not benefit from wearing a surgical mask,” the Australian Department of Health advises. “Masks are of benefit to people who are unwell so they do not cough on others, and health care workers who have frequent, close contact with unwell people.”
“People without symptoms who select to wear a masks may be utilizing masks needed for these teams the place masks use is required.”
The reasons that totally different organisations and governments are considering modifications range, but they embody strategies that widespread wearing of face masks could have helped stem the spread of COVID-19 in some Asian countries, as well as increased information suggesting that people contaminated with coronavirus could also be contagious before symptoms appear.
Nonetheless, regardless of what you are hearing from other countries, it is essential to observe the latest advice from the Australian Government. That’s because the COVID-19 scenario is just not the identical in all countries, and there are some essential variations to consider.
That sample of spread in Australia right now is totally different to the pattern in another international locations — in some places, the biggest risk is just not travellers, however the transmission of COVID-19 from unknown sources in densely populated cities.
A spokesperson for the Australian Division of Health told The Feed that Australia’s Chief Medical Officer and expert committees are continuously reviewing the latest evidence about the use of masks here. They’re additionally monitoring the mask supplies currently available in Australia, and the demand for these masks by the groups that want them most.
Internationally right now, there are shortages of personal protective equipment for most of the health care workers on the front lines of this pandemic. The supplies available in Australia at any given time usually are not essentially the same as the supplies available in other nations right now, and we need to keep away from placing additional strain on these resources unless it’s absolutely necessary.
Can I make my own masks out of a t-shirt or cloth?
You might need come throughout tutorials circulating online which show learn how to make your own protective mask out of an old t-shirt or piece of cloth.
Sadly, Professor McLaws and other consultants say that this is not proven to be effective.
“The development of a mask is very complex, and the more it filters out a particle the more costly it becomes. A cotton mask is considered to have the bottom level of filtration,” Professor McLaws said.
“But if you want to make one, it isn’t going to do any hurt — so long as you don’t use it as an excuse to cease social distancing.”
What’s the most effective way to forestall the spread of coronavirus?
Proper now in Australia, the perfect way to forestall the spread of coronavirus is to apply social distancing. You could find the latest authorities rules and suggestions on social distancing here.
And even in case you are wearing a mask, it’s best to nonetheless be taking these social distancing requirements seriously. Which means staying at dwelling unless it is absolutely essential to exit, washing your palms often and with good approach, and practising good hygiene.
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