Why Indiatimes Is Masking Up And You Need To As Well #MaskIndia

The COVID-19 pandemic has well and truly reached Indian shores, with close to 5,000 confirmed cases, and more getting added with each passing day. Things we took for granted once upon a time now seem like a privilege in a post-Coronavirus world.

While we remained locked down in our homes, social distancing whenever we risk venturing out, it is abundantly clear that precaution is going to be our best defence against COVID-19 until a definite medical cure finally gets developed. And a big favour you can do yourself right now is start wearing a mask.

Reuters

Just because there is a shortage of masks in the market, doesn¡¯t mean you cannot make one for yourself? That¡¯s what the Times Of India¡¯s #MaskIndia initiative is all about.

In case you¡¯re someone who has made a mask at home, either by watching videos on YouTube or making your very own creation, share it with the world, by clicking a selfie or video and tag it under hashtag #MaskIndia. The Times Of India will feature the best and most innovative creations online.

Reuters

However, in case you¡¯re one of those people who think masks do nothing and they aren¡¯t as necessary in today¡¯s time, it¡¯s time we opened your eyes from this misconception.

If COVID-19 isn't airborne, why do I need a mask?

It is no news that COVID-19 is transmitted through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. While COVID-19 isn't airborne, it can still transmit from the droplets of infected people -- this is an important difference we should all understand. That's why we should be a metre away from people outside our home, and try to cover our face with a mask, to ensure COVID-19 infected droplets that fall from someone's mouth don't come in contact with us.

Mask prevents others from getting infected

In case you are coughing or sneezing, the micro-droplets that you release in the process are contained within the mask itself and don¡¯t spread to the public. This way, in case you do have the infection, it won¡¯t spread to others.

Mask prevents others from infecting you

Just like it doesn¡¯t let the micro-droplets out, it doesn¡¯t let the micro-droplets in. while surely no mask is a 100 percent safe from this, it ads some kind of barrier that¡¯s still a 100 times better than no barrier at all. Certain kinds of masks also keep allergens and pollution contaminants out, filtering the air inside so you only breathe fresh, healthy air

Reuters

Mask prevents you from touching your mouth, nose

The mask also creates a barrier of sorts between your dirty fingers and your face, blocking access to inlets that can eventually get you infected, especially when you¡¯re outdoors.

All of us here at Indiatimes are masking up with Times Of India's #MaskIndia initiative. It's the one easy way we can keep ourself and our community safe. Join us and help us spread the word, and help us keep India safe.