WHO guidelines on the use of face masks
The World Health Organization has issued guidelines on how to wear and take care of face masks in view of the coronavirus pandemic.
In a downloadable document, it provides advice on the use of masks in communities, during home care, and in health care settings in areas that have reported cases of COVID-19.
There is also a video that gives instructions (SEE BELOW)
It is intended for individuals in the community, public health and infection prevention and control (IPC) professionals, health care managers, health care workers (HCWs), and community health workers.
In the document the WHO stresses that:
- Place the mask carefully, ensuring it covers the mouth and nose, and tie it securely to minimize any gaps between the face and the mask.
- Avoid touching the mask while wearing it.
- Remove the mask using the appropriate technique: do not touch the front of the mask but untie it from behind.
- After removal or whenever a used mask is inadvertently touched, clean hands using an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
- Replace masks as soon as they become damp with a new clean, dry mask.
- Do not re-use single-use masks.
- Discard single-use masks after each use and dispose of them immediately upon removal
View the document here: WHO-2019-nCov-IPC_Masks-2020.3-eng
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