During the COVID-19 pandemic, health organizations have made the wearing of face masks mandatory for prevention of spreading of the virus. Despite the cases decreasing, the virus is still continuing to spread. It is important to adapt safety protocols in order to end the COVID - 19 virus.
The wearing of face masks alone is inadequate to achieve the required level of protection. The term “protection” implies that the primary goal of wearing a face mask is to keep oneself safe. With or without face masks, precautions must be taken into consideration such as washing of hands and social distancing. To keep in mind that being inadequate does not mean it is useless.
Wearing a mask is suitable in a:
- Mall
- Dining in restaurants
- Indoor activities (e.g. badminton, bowling)
- Clubs
- Hotels
- Places of worship
- Movie theatres
Not wearing a mask is suitable in a:
- Park
- Outdoor activities (e.g., hiking, jogging, sightseeing)
- Farm
- Lakeside
- Beach
- On the mountains
Wearing a mask would not guarantee of completely not getting infected with the COVID-19 virus. However, face masks help prevent the spread of respiratory illness to others. Wearing a mask offers some protection, but not doing so offers none, even though we are unable to measure how effective it is. Primary goal is to prevent the spreading of the virus, be fully vaccinated including booster shots, wash your hands, and practice social distancing at all times.