Main image via Metro + CNN
With so many reports about the Wuhan virus going around, it’s definitely not a bad thing to be cautious during these times.
If you look around, you’ll probably notice more and more people with surgical masks around their mouths and noses, and even if you try to purchase them, shops are already running out of stock.
Image via Metro
But according to infectious diseases consultant Dr Benedict Sim, it’s not actually necessary to wear a mask now.
According to the doctor, because there is currently no human-to-human transmission of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) occurring in Malaysia, the public do not need to put on face masks just yet.
“Masks are helpful when there are human-to-human transmissions but there is none in Malaysia currently,” he said.
The doctor from Hospital Sungai Buloh said that this is why there have been no recommendation to the public to use face masks routinely every time they leave their homes.
Image via CNN
“That advice may change over time, if the outbreak changes,” the doctor said at a media briefing by the Health Ministry.
Dr Sim however does state that it is necessary for those who are visiting China – the epicenter of the outbreak; to wear a face mask regularly.
The doctor noted that the 2019-CoV is maily spread through droplets and contact, so the most suitable mask to wear if you are sick or recovering from an illness, is the three-layer surgical mask.
"There are also technical challenges when using N95 masks as it needs to fit our facial contours and must be properly worn. There is also a specific way to remove this mask without contaminating the hands," Dr Sim stressed.
He also noted that the N95 mask does not need to be worn by an individual during this time as the coronavirus is not airborne.
"So at this stage, we will not recommend the N95 mask for the general public," he said.
Image via AsiaOne
So for now, it’s okay to not have a mask on your face, unless of course, you’re sick or recovering from an illness.
We’ll keep you updated if there’ve been any changes.
Share this with your loved ones so they’re aware too!
Info via The Star