To wear or not to wear – mask facts

Q AThe WHO says that only those with symptoms of coronavirus such as a persistent dry cough, a fever or difficulty breathing need to wear a mask.

Masks worn by sick people protect others from the infection by the droplets that come out when they cough or sneeze. People caring for them should also cover up whenever they are in the same room as the patient to prevent the spread of the virus.

It says surgical masks can only help when used with other preventative measures such as frequent hand washing.

Q AA study from Hong Kong appears to indicate that the use of face masks can slow the rate of infection among the general population.

The data was shared confidentially with the WHO but is expected to be made public soon.

David Heymann, professor of infectious disease epidemiology at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said yesterday: “As always, when new evidence becomes available, WHO will be considering its face mask policies as a routine activity this week and next.” He said the WHO’S decision would also have to factor in the availability of face masks globally.

Who should wear a mask?

Q AWhy is the WHO’S guidance being reviewed?

How often should a mask be replaced?

The WHO warns that masks can give a “false feeling of protection” and can even be a source of infection if used incorrectly.

Surgical masks should only be used once and should be disposed of in a closed bin as soon as they become damp.

Those using a mask should avoid touching it while wearing it and remove via the elastic straps that go over the ears and immediately wash their hands once it has been removed and disposed of.

But NHS staff say shortages of masks are causing huge problems within the service.

Q ACan I make my own mask?

There are now dozens of tutorials and patterns online to make your own face mask, but health officials warned against the false sense of security that can come from a homemade mask. Dr Stephen Baker, molecular microbiologist at the University of Cambridge’s Infectious Disease Centre, explained that surgical masks are made to a certain medical standard to avoid the transmission of airborne water droplets carrying viruses.