Months after many cities and countries directed their residents to wear fabric face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19 even if they are healthy, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued the same guidance for the global community.
At a press briefing on June 5, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced that the organization now recommends people who live in areas experiencing “widespread transmission” of COVID-19 wear a fabric mask whenever social distancing of at least one meter (about three feet) is not possible. The guidance applies even to those not showing symptoms of coronavirus, as research now strongly suggests many people with the disease are asymptomatic or only mildly symptomatic. People in high-risk groups, including the elderly and those with underlying conditions, should try to wear a medical-grade mask.
“Governments should encourage the general public to wear masks where there is widespread transmission and physical distancing is difficult, such as on public transport or in shops,” Ghebreyesus said.
The WHO’s guidance also describes the most effective materials to use in a fabric face mask. Ideally, masks should consist of three layers: an inner layer made of an absorbent material like cotton, which can trap the wearer’s own respiratory droplets; a middle layer made of a non-woven material, like polypropylene, that acts as a filter; and an outer layer made of a non-absorbent material like polyester, which stops outside particles from getting in.
If that’s not possible, the WHO recommends at least folding or sewing your mask such that it has multiple layers. Stretchy, elastic fabrics aren’t ideal because they don’t filter very well, and can’t be washed in hot water. (Fabric masks should be washed frequently with hot water and soap or detergent, the WHO says.)
Previously, the WHO only advised individuals experiencing symptoms or caring for people sick with coronavirus to wear masks, although many areas have already implemented more expansive policies at the local level. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) first recommended the widespread use of fabric face coverings on April 3, for example.
Jamie Ducharme – TIME – June 5, 2020.
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