Why do we need a mask?
You wear a mask to protect yourself and others from the deadly COVID-19 virus. The primary mode of transmission of the COVID-19 virus is through respiratory droplets from one person to another. By wearing a mask, you make sure that your respiratory droplets do not land on others thereby infecting them.
Remember, asymptomatic people can also act as carriers of the virus.
Who should wear a mask?
Any person who is 2 years and above of age is advised to wear a mask. For information on rules governing mask exemption in Alberta, please visit https://www.alberta.ca/masks.aspx.
How to wear a mask properly?
- Your mask must secure your nose and mouth in a snug fashion without any gaps.
- 3 layers of high thread-count fabric is considered optimal.
- A mask is considered contaminated when touched with hands, when worn outside, when used by others and when worn for long periods of time.
- Clean your hands before and after putting your mask on.
- Never discard your used mask on the road or on the floor where others can come in contact. They are to be disposed of responsibly in garbage cans. A reusable used face mask should be stored in an air tight bag until laundering.
When to wear a mask?
Masks are to be worn when in public, importantly while using any form of public transportation or in any scenario involving close proximity or physical contact with other people not from your household. You are also recommended to wear a mask inside your house if one of your household members has tested positive for COVID-19.
Remember, wearing a mask is not an excuse to break the ‘6 feet away’ rule.
For masks to work best, every one of us should wear one.