Mask must be worn properly to prevent inhaling germs…
The threat of catching this new influenza has prompted the sales of hand sanitizers, surgical gloves and masks to skyrocket. Many feel safe using these items but the improper use of gloves and masks may in fact prevent any protection. News Five’s Jose Sanchez stopped by the Central Health Region Headquarters and spoke to a technician about the proper etiquette for wearing gloves and masks.
Juvencio Chan, Lab Supervisor, Central Health Region
“We got three types: we got the N-ninety-five and the surgical masks. The recommended one is the N-ninety-five and this will help you protect yourself to these virus. It’s not a hundred percent effective but this (N-ninety-five) is the best one.”
Jose Sanchez
“Why is the N95 better than the other one?”
Juvencio Chan
“This got special spores that does not allow the air droplets to pass through. This might—I am not saying it’s not correct, but this is the best one—the quality is best and it last longer. Don’t touch the inside.”
Jose Sanchez
“I notice you have on your gloves already.”
Juvencio Chan
“Yes I have my gloves on. What you do, you put it pan you face. Pull the bottom one—the bottom one first and then the top one. When this fit, make sure you put it tight to your nose so that no air could come in from this side. So when your mouth moves you can see that the mask go up and down. And this is the correct way to put this mask.”
Jose Sanchez
“I see people would pull it off a few second and scratch their face and put it back on. Is that wrong?”
Juvencio Chan
“Its wrong yes. I know this is uncomfortable to work with or stay whole day. But once you touch it, you spoil it. Because why? Because all the germs are here because when you the breath all the germs that is filtered it stay right here. So if you touch, move, scratch your face with the same hand you no the do nothing. And the proper way to take it off, the same way—I will use gloves—pull the bottom one, the top one and discard. This one, you got to put it on your nose, your ears sorry, right so. And to remove it the same way: don’t touch inside or nothing. Just pull it out again, make sure it’s held properly and discard.”
Jose Sanchez
“Do you use the gloves first or after you put on the masks?”
Juvencio Chan
“First thing, use the gloves, always the gloves. When you remove these, take it out, see—in out—in out—wash your hand or use hand sanitizer.”
Chan says that rags and bandanas do not offer the best protection and people who use them to cover their faces should also discard them after use. Washing makeshift masks such as bandanas with Clorox may eliminate some germs.
