As we all have noticed during the COVID-19 pandemic, face masks have become a must have part of everyday clothing. The approach to face masks varies greatly between the World Health Organisation (WHO) Guidelines and that of its member nations. Officially the WHO recommends to only use a mask while taking care of a person with a suspected COVID-19 infection. This guideline is a bit at odds with the practices taken in places like China. The Chinese government recommends disposable masks for those living and working in high density population centres.
While China recommends its citizens to wear a face mask. Countries such as Japan, the United Kingdom and Germany cite a lack of evidence showing that face masks are effective for the public to prevent infections. Medical professionals use them generally as droplet protection, which can be created by those who carry respiratory infections.
If you are to wear a mask regularly it is important to note a few things. Improper use of disposable face masks, such as reusing them, does not provide the benefit of a fresh one and could put you at a higher risk of infection.
Regardless of what other countries are doing, listen to the guidelines and news outlets of the local government. They keep track of the supply and will change the guidelines to meet the needs of the country and its people. So if they are available and there are no shortages in the country, it is a good idea to be as protected as possible. Please stay protected and keep the curve as flat as possible.
