The cases of COVID-19 are still rising at an alarming rate in The United States, but the good thing is a lot more people are wearing a mask. Even the president wore one, after some resistance. I was amazed because he was the main one defying common sense. (And I’m still waiting for his supporters to inject themselves with bleach, but I digress.)
COVID-19 pandemic reporting has caused a lot of people that was hesitant to take precautions, because more people know of someone, or someone who actually has had it. Unfortunately that is enough evidence for a lot more people to start wearing masks. And I was happy that everyone was getting with the program until the program got ridiculous.
Now I see people wearing masks in the car when alone, when jogging, when riding bikes or just in the yard gardening. Why? It seems like that would be unnecessary and let me explain why. If you are alone driving in your car, why are you wearing a mask to protect yourself?
So let’s go over why and when masks should be worn.
Okay, it is advised that we wear a mask when we are in close proximity of people in public. They should be worn when in medical facilities or coming into contact with anyone infected with COVID-19 or showing any of these symptoms:
Fever or chills
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Muscle or body aches
Headache
New loss of taste or smell
Sore throat
Congestion or runny nose
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea
You should also social distance and avoid close contact.
The Dangers of Continuously Wearing Masks
According to the FDA, there are two main types of masks, N95 respirators and surgical masks. Both are tested for fluid resistance and filtration efficiency.
- N95 masks are more tightly fitted, making them more likely to inhibit the breathing of the wearer if worn for a prolonged period of time.
- Surgical masks, which are disposable, and other types of cloth face masks are looser fitting, making it highly unlikely that wearers would see significant depletions in their oxygen intake. Non-N95 masks also are porous, allowing air to flow in and out and permitting normal respiratory functions, while limiting the release of respiratory droplets.
You may get hypoxia or carbon dioxide poisoning, but the risk is low if you wear a mask that allows you to breath freely while on, like a disposable surgical masks. The ones lined with carbon allow you to take in air and traps other particles in the lining.
It is advised that you take breaks periodically; because you do run the risk of becoming light headed or risk hypoxia. If you are alone in an open space a mask would not be needed but you still need to social distance.
So continue to wear masks but do not overdo it.
(Posted on You Tube by Click On Detroit | Local 4 | WDIV)
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