Face masks, a curse or a boon?

Up until the year 2019, face masks were not at all “trendy” or
something you would see people wearing often. Their use was usually
limited to hospitals or extremely sick people who did not want to go
around transmitting whatever illness they were carrying. However,
everything changed at the arrival of the year 2020, which has scarred
the majority of mankind for life and will forever be imprinted on the
minds of those who suffered loss and pain at the hands of the
destructive pandemic that scathed the entire planet. You guessed it
right! We are talking about a thing so ridiculously small that no one
would have given a second thought to it let alone be frightened of it.
Yet it managed to bring the entire world to its knees, a virus known as
Covid-19.
Usually, viruses are not much of a threat because of the presence of
vaccinations and anti-viral medications. However, the fact that Covid-19
was a completely new class of the novel corona viruses made it a threat
that could NOT be ignored. After a lot of mistakes and mishaps,
including unfortunately, a large number of deaths, governments finally
became aware of how dire the situation was. Strict lockdowns began to
be imposed everywhere, with special emphasis on social distancing and
the practice of a better hygiene (for example the use of hand
sanitizers).
That is where the main topic of discussion of this article arrives. Face
masks. Now, the moment scientists and doctors identified Covid-19 as a
respiratory illness which could be spread by air droplets (from coughing
and sneezing), emphasis on the use of face masks began to be
highlighted all over the globe. It was considered one of the most
effective ways to stop the spread after the lockdowns and usage of
sanitizers. Of course, a certain percentage of the population did deem it
as a “violation of human rights” to be forced to wear masks against
their will since they were completely healthy, but a majority did
understand the threat of asymptotic viral spread and practiced wearing
masks regularly to protect those around them.

History 
First of all, what exactly is a face mask? It is basically a piece of cloth,
net or any other material covering the mouth and the nose. The earliest
masks are dated back to 6 BC, where images and sculptures show
people covering their mouths with cloth. Eventually growing more
sophisticated, beak shaped masks were formed in the 16 century
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during the era of what is known as Black Death.

With more time and research, people began to realize the importance
of masks as the presence of pathogens in the air was proven by
scientists. Throughout the 20 century and the last two decades,
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advancements have been made to make safe and secure masks to

prevent the spread of as many viruses and bacteria as possible. Today,
effective and disposable masks such as surgical masks, KN90 and N95
are in use everywhere especially since the arise of this recent
pandemic.

Types

Surgical face masks

Commonly worn in hospitals, surgical masks are used during surgical
procedures to keep the environment sterile and to not expose the
patient to any germs, as their weakened immune systems during
surgery are more susceptible to pathogens. Surgical masks are designed
to block splashes, sprays and large particle droplets containing viruses
and bacteria, hence protecting you from any germs in the air and at the
same time, protecting people from your saliva and respiratory
secretions. These masks are effective in preventing the spread of Covid-
19 as well but the CDC ushers people to preserve these masks for
healthcare workers who are at higher risk of exposure to the virus.

N95 

One of the most effective kinds of masks there are, the N95 mask
blocks out 95% of all pathogens that are 0.3 microns or smaller in size.
Initially built to filter smells and gases in the early times, advancements
have resulted in the current, more sophisticated masks we have today.
Although multiple companies take part in the production of this variety
of masks, lately they have been in shortage due to the ongoing
pandemic. Hence, if you are a healthcare worker or a medical
professional, you should definitely be getting one of these ASAP!

Cloth masks 

Probably the most fashionable and diverse variety of masks there is,
cloth masks have been increasingly used throughout last year.
Sufficiently effective in blocking large droplets and slowing the rate of
spread, use of cloth masks has been encouraged for common people
worldwide. This way, surgical and N95/KN90 masks can be preserved
for those who need them more i.e. healthcare officials and at the same
time, the spread of Covid-19 can be controlled as much as possible. If
these have run out in your area and you cannot find them at any local
store, you can make one at home using any cloth available. Just make
sure to follow proper guidelines laid down by your respective
healthcare department!

In these difficult and testing times, we as humans need to join hands

despite our differences and do everything in our power to eliminate
this threat from our lives. Remember, the more we co-operate, the
quicker we will be able to return to our normal lives with our loved
ones. Hence wear your masks, practice social distancing and wash your
hands as frequently as possible!