20/07/2020
Reposting Dr Edsel Maurice Salvana's post:
Reminders to maximize protection against COVID-19:
1. Always wear a mask outside the house correctly and consistently.
This can be a cloth or a surgical mask. A face shield is NOT an adequate replacement for a mask but you can wear them together. Do not touch the front of the mask after you have put it on because it is considered contaminated. If you inadvertently touch the front, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer immediately. You can adjust the mask with the straps. Make sure the mask covers your nose and mouth. Do not pull down the mask when talking, sneezing or coughing. If you are going to eat, remove the mask completely rather than pulling it down on your chin and getting yourself contaminated. You can store the mask in a paper bag until you are done eating and you can put it back on using the straps if it is not yet soiled.
Dispose of the mask properly when you get home. If it is a washable cloth mask, immediately put in soapy water upon going home using the straps to handle. If it is a disposable mask, remove using the straps and throw into the trash. Wash your hands or sanitize with alcohol afterwards.
2. Consider wearing a face shield WITH the mask when taking public transportation, or if you expect to meet a lot of people throughout the day and physical distancing might be challenging.
Face shields represent a second layer of protection and also protect the eyes. A disposable face shield, a DIY faceshield made from acetate/plastic or a resuable one are fine. Handle using the back straps. For cleaning, you can use soapy water, dilute bleach solution or 70% alcohol. Some plastic shields may fog up with alcohol so test it out on a small area first. As with masks, avoid touching the front of the shield, and wash or sanitize your hands if you inadvertently touch it.
3. Do NOT eat together at work.
This is one of the most common ways people contaminate each other even if they follow masking and face shield use 99% of the time. Take turns or shifts because you won't be wearing a mask while eating. If possible, eat in a well-ventilated area. If eating together is inevitable, keep a safe distance (at least 3 feet, but 6 feet or further is better) and do not face each other. Use acrylic barriers if available. Minimize talking any time your mask is off.
4. Physical distance at least 3 feet or further.
Combined with masking and faceshields, this may be able to interrupt up to 90% of transmission. If you can't keep that distance constantly, then mask + faceshield can maximize protection. Avoid talking in enclosed spaces like elevators.
A recent New York Times article showed that up to 92% of Filipinos wear a mask outside the home. This is excellent. If we can ensure that the masks are worn properly and consistently combined with other measures, we can make a real difference against COVID-19 in our country. Stay safe and let's all fight COVID-19 together.
