Masks of any type are not that effective, because any part of a mask not tightly against our skin can let in germs. And none of us can keep, either consciously or unconsciously, from reaching up to adjust it so it’s more comfortable or we want to scratch under it. Besides, our eyes–touching them can bring infection into our bodies–are still out in the open.
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) says that the most effective guard against disease, including Coronavirus, is hand-washing. But not the way we often tend to do it. We should do it often, but especially under certain circumstances. See their article. The article also discusses hand sanitizers (always 60% alcohol!), their effectiveness, and how to use them. Here are their 5 steps the CDC says to take for effective hand-washing:
- Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
