“You’re a Maskhole”

Post author:independentnws
Post published:January 12, 2021
Post category:Health / Seniors

Masks 101: Do You Feel Lucky?

By Sandra Olmsted

I have heard that people who refuse to wear masks are called “maskholes.” I don’t like masking up then seeing healthy-looking people claiming a respiratory problem to avoid wearing a mask. As if I enjoy it! Although I did get carded when I bought beer the other day.
Whether showing symptoms or not, those infected and recovering shed and spread the COVID virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the most dangerous phase is when the infected person is asymptomatic; in the 3 months after recovery, patients shed the virus in diminishing levels. According to the CDC and Dr. Fauci, the effectiveness of masks, if one of two people is shedding Covid, are: If both people mask and social distance: the chance of being infected is 4%. If one person is shedding viruses and only one of the two is masked, then the chance of infection is 40%. If neither person is masked, the rate of infection is 80%.
Masks should be worn over both the nose and the mouth. PERIOD. And don’t touch the mask. Everyone over the age of 2 should wear a mask around people outside their bubble. Those age 2 and under should not wear masks or face shields because they can suffocate. Those with legitimate respiratory problems, a Covid comorbidity, should avoid situations where wearing a mask is advisable. Remove masks by the straps and wash hands afterward. Hot water wash and bleach are recommended. According to Healthline.com, wearing a mask can also reduce how sick you get if you contract COVID.
According to the CDC and World Health Organization (WHO), masks must be made of at least three layers of tightly-woven, breathable fabric, preferably cotton, and not knitted fabric. Masks must be washed after each use and swapped for a dry mask when they get wet from weather or condensation. In addition to having extra masks with you, I recommend having safety pins handy, for maskwear malfunctions.
For more on the importance and care of masks, check out www.cdc.gov and www.who.int, and don’t miss WHO Director-General Dr. Ghebreyesus’ New Year Message on how important it is to prevent COVID shedding and spreading. Also, a quote by Dr. B. Calinawagan, a top Philippine cardiologist, calls attention to the fact that medical professionals are NOT the first line of defense but the last resort. Just Don’t Be A Maskhole! Under those masks, we are all in this together!