The Chief Health Officer, Dr Brett Sutton recommends that adults living in areas under Stage 3 restrictions wear a face mask when outside your home if it is difficult to keep 1.5 metres apart from other people. Watch here to see how to correctly wear a face mask https://youtu.be/nwXJtN2Yt60
There are two types of face masks available:
- cloth masks (reusable)
- surgical masks (single use, disposable)
How do I correctly wear a face mask?
Cloth mask
A cloth mask should fit securely around the face, specifically covering the nose and the mouth areas. The mask should fit snug on your face and be secured by ties at the back of your head or ear loops. Make sure that your mask does not have holes or a valve. This can result in breathing out the virus if you have coronavirus (COVID-19).
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or use hand sanitiser that is made up of over 60% alcohol before putting it on and after taking it off. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth at all times and store used face masks in a plastic bag until you have an opportunity to wash them.
Surgical mask (single use)
• Before putting on the mask, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or use a hand sanitiser that is made up of over 60% alcohol.
• Check for defects in the mask, such as tears or broken loops.
• Position the coloured side of the mask outward.
• If present, make sure the metallic strip is at the top of the mask and positioned against the bridge of your nose.
• Mould the bendable metallic upper strip to the shape of your nose by pinching and pressing down on it with your fingers.
• Pull the bottom of the mask over your mouth and chin.
• Be sure the mask fits snugly.
• Don't touch the mask once in position.
• If the mask gets soiled or damp, replace it with a new one.
Information is sourced from the DHHS at https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/face-masks-covid-19
Wherever you can, keep 1.5 metres apart from others, wash your hands often, and cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow. And if you have symptoms – get tested.
In a medical emergency call 9527 5111.