The Use of Masks, as an Effective Method in Preventing the Transmission of the COVID-19, During Pandemic and the New Normal Era: A Review

Abstract

The transmission of Coronavirus 2019 infection also known as COVID-19, occurs when in direct contact, I.e., within one meter, with an infected person through respiratory droplets, which are produced from coughing, sneezing, or nasal and mouth fluids. Therefore, this study aims to explore the use of face mask, as a method of preventing COVID-19 transmission. The use of face masks is an important and comprehensive part of the effort to prevent the COVID-19 transmission. It is used by healthy people as protection when in contact those infected or as a control, to prevent further transmission. Also, WHO recommends using masks to protect medical workers during routine care for patients, especially those confirmed with the virus. Furthermore, there are several types of masks, such as cloth, medical and respirator, also known as N-95 masks. This brand, which are available in the US as N95 and in the UK as FFP ( filtering face piece ), are used to prevent the entry of small particles in the air that produce aerosols. The use of a respirator mask is a priority, and when the availability in a health care center is limited, then medical types are to be used as alternative.