Keep your droplets to yourself: Universal use of face masks along with social distancing
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12957/bjhbs.2020.59715Keywords:
Coronavirus infections, Masks, Prevention & control.Abstract
Introduction: As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses around
the world, the universal use of face masks imposes itself as a
measure to mitigate the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and is
currently recommended by the World Health Organization.
However, its effectiveness as a method of preventing COVID-
19 is still controversial. Objective: To review the literature
on the universal use of facial masks, including fabric ones, and
their recommendations for use. Methods: Narrative review
of published studies on the topic. Results: Face masks act predominantly
as a source control mechanism, as they capture
the droplets expelled by the user when speaking, coughing
or sneezing, protecting other people and the environment
from contamination by potentially infecting droplets. Evidence
of the effectiveness of its universal use as a method of
mitigating epidemics of viral respiratory infections is derived
from experimental studies and mathematical models. Proper
use of facial masks is essential to ensure their effectiveness
and prevent damage, and includes covering the nose, mouth
and chin, washing the fabric masks with soap and water after
use and hand hygiene several times a day, especially when
handling the mask. Conclusions: The universal use of facial
masks in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic is justified,
especially considering the occurrence of virus transmission
in the pre-symptomatic period, and should be adopted in
conjunction with other measures such as adequate social
distance and hygiene from the hands, following the motto
“I protect you and you protect me”.
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