What WHO says about over 60s and face masks
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has changed its stance on the wearing of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.
People over 60 and those with underlying medical conditions should wear a medical-grade mask when they’re in public and are unable to socially distance, WHO says, adding that they should wear a three-layer fabric mask in those situations.
WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the advice was based on new research.
“In areas with community transmission, we advise that people aged 60 years or over, or those with underlying conditions, should wear a medical mask in situations where physical distancing is not possible," Mr Tedros said.
“WHO [also] advises that governments should encourage the general public to wear masks where there is widespread transmission and physical distancing is difficult, such as on public transport, in shops or in other confined or crowded environments."
The WHO guidance says people can make their own three-layer masks by using an inner layer of an absorbent material, such as cotton or cotton blends, a middle layer made of a non-woven material polypropylene or cotton to enhance filtration of droplets, and an outer layer of a non-absorbent material such polypropylene, polyester, or their blends. Stretchy, porous materials should be avoided.
WHO says masks should be worn only by one person and should be changed if soiled or wet. They should be washed at high temperatures or, if hot water is not available, boiled for one minute.
WHO adds however, that the use of a mask alone is insufficient to provide an adequate level of protection and should be combined with other personal and community measures.
Best to buy them and must not be touched on the inside of mask with your hands before applying.
Hold by its elastics and bin it after use.
Do not re apply after removing.
Wash hands after removing it and do not wear it for more than 4 hours at a time.
Ensure mask has a close fit to face covering all of mouth and nose with pinching the top wire edge on top of nose bridge for a snug fit.