DHS Speaks on the Use of Masks

Marvin Manzanero

Everyone has to wear a mask in public, but you are allowed not to use one if you are travelling in a private vehicle.  Doctor Marvin Manzanero spoke today about why it is important that this personal protective gear is used properly. He says that other hygienic practices must also be carried out when using a mask.

Dr. Marvin Manzanero, Director of Health Services

“We have to learn how to use a mask for sure because there are specific uses for a mask but it isn’t your primary prevention method. For example, I am not wearing a mask but in the room where I am there are three other people and they are wearing a mask but they are not that close. So, a mask is not a routine usage where you keep on for the amount of hours you are actually awake. For example, where is there benefit for wearing a mask; the benefit for you and the other persons alongside you. When you are in public transportation, for example, where you don’t know where people are coming from and their background and all kind of things, you can’t control those kinds of things. But if you are in a office space where routinely you share an office space with two or three persons, it doesn’t mean that the three of you will have to wear a mask inside that office space, but the moment you step out on the street to buy or go to a bank or supermarket, there is value in using a mask. So, hypoxia may come about if you are using it improperly, yes. Even our breathing pattern may have to change as we move along.   Now, I don’t know that should wear a mask because we are afraid of the legislative mechanism behind it. If we are going to learn to wear a mask then it needs to be done properly. You shouldn’t be touching your face. It doesn’t take away from the fact that you have to wash your hands and have proper respiratory etiquette; that you have to always avoid touching your face because that is very important.”