A cloth mask decreases the risk of the virus passing from an ill or infected person to other people and it also protects the wearer to a degree. By acting in a conscious manner, we shall quell the spread of the virus and bring closer the time when life can return to normal.

Wearing a mask is particularly important in communal spaces (shops, chemist’s
shops, medical establishments, public transport) where many people are gathered together. Without wearing a mask, the particles of the virus spread many metres away when coughing or sneezing.

How can a self-made mask stop the spread of the virus?

Wearing a self-made mask is without a doubt more beneficial than being in indoor public spaces without a mask. A self-made mask is a good thing for various reasons, including:

1. Catching the particles

Exhaled air includes droplets of spittle, which can contain the virus. Wearing a mask ensures that those don’t fall on surfaces that somebody else will touch later on. Depending on the material used, a self-made mask can catch 30 to 50 per cent of tiny particles.

2. Face protection

Mask prevents you from touching your face and helps remember to not touch your face accidentally, which in turn helps prevent transferring the virus from the hands to the mucous membranes and the eyes, and vice versa.

3. Observing safety measures

Wearing a mask helps remember to observe other safety measures, such as keeping distance with other people. It also expresses solidarity with those who are already wearing a mask.

Wearing masks has already helped many countries to abate the spread of the virus.

Note: a person diagnosed with or exhibiting the symptoms of the corona virus must stay at home and avoid contact with others regardless of having a mask or not.