Will a wet face mask be as effective? GHMC finds out

GHMC officials deputed on Covid-19 duty are worried about face masks getting wet on a rainy day, and more so during the monsoon.

They claim that disposable masks, handkerchieves and cloth masks, when wet, cannot not prevent droplets from spreading if a wearer sneezes or coughs.

According to a GHMC official, based on the data of asymptomatic persons and relaxations given by the government, about 40 per cent of the city’s population is out on the city roads. Though physical distancing has gone for a toss, people are managing with face masks of all types to prevent Covid-19 transmission.

However, on a rainy day, if physical distancing is not maintained, a wet mask cannot stop transmission, since water can carry a range of viruses.

Now, the corporation, prior to raising awareness about using alternative masks or carrying one more wrapped in a cover, has decided to write to the state health department to check with Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for specific guidelines on the matter of wet masks.

The official said that if this is not addressed immediately, the situation would turn from bad to worse during monsoon with the spread of vector-borne diseases.

Dr K. Shankar, Superintendent of Fever Hospital, said, “Maintaining one-metre distance would be mandatory or else they have to carry a dry mask for immediate replacement. However, a person replacing the wet mask should use sanitisers immediately and should not touch his face. If these instructions are followed, there is nothing to worry about.

● THOUGH PHYSICAL distancing has gone for a toss, people are managing with face masks of all types to prevent Covid-19 transmission.

● HOWEVER, ON A rainy day, if physical distancing is not maintained, a wet mask cannot stop transmission, since water can carry a range of viruses.