Study: wearing a mask can prevent a second wave of covid

Positive cases of COVID-19 in a number of countries have indeed decreased, but that does not mean the pandemic will end soon. Experts actually warn of the potential for a second wave if we are careless in prevention. The good news is that the masks that you use every day can actually be a weapon to prevent the second wave of COVID-19.

The importance of masks in preventing transmission of COVID-19

COVID-19 is transmitted through droplet , which is a splash of liquid containing a virus that comes out when a person talks, coughs, and sneezes. Virus inside droplet can enter the body if you inhale it or touch contaminated items.

Masks have an important role because they function to prevent entry droplet into the respiratory tract. In general, there are three types of masks that can be used during a pandemic, namely surgical masks, N95 masks, and cloth masks.

The best type of mask to prevent COVID-19 is the N95 mask, because this mask is able to filter 95% of the fine particles in the air you breathe. However, the N95 mask cannot be used everyday because it will cause tightness.

In terms of function and comfort, surgical masks are the most suitable for everyday wear. This mask is sufficient to protect the nose and mouth without causing discomfort.

It's just that, given the limited stock of masks in hospitals, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the government urge people to wear cloth masks. This mask is enough to protect you from the risk of getting hit droplet even though it doesn't have any filtering ability.

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The role of masks in preventing the second wave of COVID-19

Most countries currently rely on restrictions to stop the spread of COVID-19. The level of restrictions varies according to the policies taken, ranging from Large-Scale Social Restrictions (PSBB) to lockdown total.

Although it can reduce positive cases, lockdown alone is not enough to anticipate the second wave of COVID-19. According to a recent study in the UK, the best way to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic is to lockdown and the use of masks.

Researchers believe that if everyone wears a mask, lockdown will be much more effective. Obligation to wear a mask during lockdown will not only flatten the pandemic curve, but also prevent a second and even third wave of COVID-19.

To prove this initial theory, the researchers created four models lockdown with four scenarios. The scenario is lockdown with 0%, 25%, 50% and 100% of the public using masks, respectively.

The following is an overview obtained in each scenario:

1. No one is wearing a mask

In the first scenario, no one is wearing a mask, so the positive cases multiply. The positive cases dropped slightly after lockdown , but the second wave began immediately lockdown ended.

2. Some people wear masks

If one in four people wears a mask, the positive case curve will be more gentle. Transmission still occurs, but the risk for people who routinely wear masks is smaller than those who don't.

3. Half of the population wears a mask

Initial positive cases were few because half of the population was protected by masks, but then jumped dramatically after the fourth week. If the number of people wearing masks does not increase, a second wave of COVID-19 could follow soon.

4. Everyone wears a mask

The risk of transmission is very small if everyone wears a mask, both medical and homemade masks. The pandemic is still ongoing, but the obligation to wear masks makes everyone more protected from infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Research published in journals Proceedings of the Royal Society A. It also states that when people wear masks, this step can double the risk of transmission.

The most important thing remains physical distancing

Masks are indeed very important to prevent transmission of COVID-19, especially in the middle of a transitional period new normal the COVID-19 pandemic. Even so, don't forget that the most important thing is physical distancing .

According to a research published in the journal The Lancet early last June, the use of masks was added physical distancing and eye protection can reduce the risk of transmission by 75-85%.

Fortunately, you don't have to stock up on surgical masks or eye protection before going out. The reason is, experts say that masks are quite reliable as long as they are used properly.

For maximum protection, here are the things you need to pay attention to when wearing a mask.

• Place the mask in front of the mouth and nose.
• Attach the strap to the ear or tie the rope behind your head.
• Do not touch the mask when wearing it.
• If you accidentally touch the mask, wash it off immediately with water or hand sanitizer .
• Remove the mask by removing the strap without touching it.
• Wash your hands immediately after removing the mask.
• Wash the mask regularly with soap and water.

In addition to providing yourself with masks and physical distancing , make sure you also maintain personal and environmental hygiene. Wash your hands regularly, avoid touching many objects outside the home, and regularly clean items that you use frequently.