The new novel coronavirus (COVID-19) seems to have pulled the carpet right underneath our feet. It was only 2 months back that we had heard word of a new strain of coronavirus that broke out in Wuhan, China. We set in the back of our mind, and never thought there would be a reason to worry. But alas, we have come to the juncture that has left us with a cold sweat and shuddering in fear!
But this is not to time to sit back and contemplate. The virus is spreading fast and the key to stopping it in its tracks is the person staring back at you in the mirror!
Before we answer the question of wearing face masks, let us learn what the COVID-19 virus is all about!
What Is The Coronavirus (COVID-19)?
The coronavirus is a strain of weak viruses that is mostly seen in animals. It has jumped and transmitted to humans by means of animal-human transmissions. This is not the first time this is happening as we had seen in similar outbreaks of swine flu (2009), the Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome (MERS) in 2012 and the Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) way back in 2002. People have speculated that ground Zero and patient Zero would have both been at the wet markets in Wuhan, China!
How Does COVID-19 Spread?
This strain of novel coronavirus spreads in the form of respiratory droplets that is expelled when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The saliva of the infected person also carries the virus. Virologist and health agencies are in a mad scramble to understand completely the method of transmission. Some speculate fomites, while others feel that the virus can persist on infected surfaces for hours or even days! We are still in the hot pursuit to cracking open the science behind COVID-19!
How To Prevent The Spread? Will Using Face Masks Often Help?
The solution to stopping the coronavirus in its tracks is in the hands of each and every one of us! People who are infected are to wear a face mask, to reduce the transmission to others. If you are entering into a crowded space, then it is best that a face mask be worn by you. Well-made, good quality face masks can make a big difference in keeping your loved ones safe and clear of danger.
Stay strong and do your part in the fight against COVID-19!