How to Wear a Common Cold Mask
A face mask, commonly worn by surgeons in the operating room, becomes a popular accessory during pandemic season. When worn by an infected person, a face mask can help prevent illness from spreading to other people. Face masks are not absolute safeguards against viral infection, but when used with good hand washing and sanitation practices, antimicrobial face mask technology can help reduce your risk of catching or spreading the common cold.
Instructions
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Buy the proper-size face mask for your face. Child-size face masks are available for children.
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Fit the mask on your face. Make sure that your mask is facing the right direction. According to NPR.org, a study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health showed that 22 percent of people put their protective masks on upside down.
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Secure the strap on your face mask. Some surgical and protective masks strap around the head, while other masks have loops that slip around the ears. If the mask fits loosely, allowing air to enter, adjust the straps or get a different-size mask.
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Check your mask to be sure there are no air leaks. Some masks have a metal strip that allows you to bend and form the mask to your nose. To bend the metal strip, pinch it with your fingers.
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Keep the mask on, even if the air feels humid, unless you are away from other people. Removing your mask exposes you to airborne pathogens and pollutants.
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Tips & Warnings
Anti-infection face masks equipped with disinfectant or antiviral agents can be used to prevent infection due to airborne pathogens. Maintain good sanitation habits. A cold mask is no substitute for frequent hand washing.
