If You're Going Out To Get Vaccinated, Here's How Should You Mask Up

In light of the second wave of COVID-19, health experts have advised everyone to double-mask to curb the infection of the highly contagious virus.

Since the risk of double mutant and triple mutant coronavirus variants looms over us, people are advised to wear not just one but two masks in order to avoid getting infected.

These strains are said to be more infectious and easily transmissible.

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The Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has also advised double-masking as a protocol to be followed after conducting studies on it which confirmed its workings.

Please make it a double! pic.twitter.com/WVpPNsY4oY

¡ª Arindam Mukherjee (@AriMukherjee) April 27, 2021

Studies suggest that double-masking can lower the chances of infection, and cut severity rates by as much as 85-95%.

Using additional layers and masks can create a tougher barrier that will restrict germs and viruses from creeping in and spreading infections. It can also help reduce the communicability of any infection. Additionally, it can offer a tighter and more snug fit when covering the mouth.

It is extremely important to double-layer if you are engaging in a high-risk environment.

Another very important thing to keep in mind is that layering up with two cloth masks is not as helpful as putting a cloth mask over a surgical/N-95 mask. It will provide a better face cover as well as prevent leakage of air or collection of particles.

According to experts, the following is to be noted while double-masking:

1. Use knotted masks with the option of ties

2. Use two masks that fit well with each other, and preferably, offer minimal gaps

3. Ensure both of them are good quality masks

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Based on studies done by the CDC, different types of double-mask layering offer different levels of protection. For example, while an unknotted mask only could offer up to 56.6% prevention against viral particles, a well-knotted and tucked surgical mask over/ beneath the cloth mask offers over 85.4% prevention and protection.

In order to double-mask, it is recommended that you wear a surgical mask first. After that, add knots to the loops of the mask where they attach to the edges. Tuck in and flatten any extra fabric which is close to the mask. Once that has settled in, layer up with an additional cloth mask.

Also read: Thai PM Attends Meeting To Discuss COVID-19 Situation Without Face Mask, Fined Rs 14,000

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Double-masking can feel tight and take a while to get used to but it's important remember that it can help curb the spread of infection. Never use two masks of the same kind.

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