Health Protection Agency’s top epidemiologist Dr. Ibrahim Afzal has described the features of a facemask used to protect against the Covid-19 global pandemic.
Addressing the media, Dr. Afzal said that the facemask should sufficiently cover the nose and mouth. He said the mask should be fitted and that one should be able to secure the mask to the head with ear loops or straps.
Dr. Afzal said the mask should have more than two or three layers and that the wearer must be able to breathe under the mask.
Dr. Afzal cautioned that the thickness of the mask or the design of the mask should not in any way block the airway.
The epidemiologist also said that masks should be made using water-repellant cloths. Dr. Afzal noted that if these features are incorporated then individuals can sew their own masks.
He warned that children under the age of 2 years should not be made to wear a facemask. Dr. Afzal said generally children and adults who are unable to remove the masks themselves should not wear them.
He also said frontline workers should always use surgical masks and must refrain from using homemade masks while at work.
Dr. Afzal cautioned that wearing a facemask does not protect the person from the highly contagious Covid-19 virus and that individuals should maintain social distance and wash their hands frequently.
