Disposable mask could be the next biggest hazard. Mask wearing reduces 60% risk of COVID-19 infection but dispose the face mask properly.
The prevailing global pandemic has brought everything to a standstill. Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic has begun, there has been an increased need to maintain hygiene. With everything coming back on track with the graded unlocking phases, mask has become a pivotal part of our lives. Face Masks are extremely essential to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Mask wearing reduces 60% risk of COVID-19 infection.
Wearing mask scores over other preventive public health measures from COVID-19 infection as nose and mouth are the main gateways for the entry of the virus. Everyone stresses upon the importance of wearing the mask correctly to prevent the infection and there has been a surge in the demand of the facemask. Frontline COVID Warriors and people employed in the essential services have relied on plastic-based, single-use personal protective equipment (PPE) like masks and gowns to shield themselves from the coronavirus.
Dispose the used masks, gloves properly
The result has been a quickly growing mountain of plastic waste. Gloves & used masks are being disposed off wherever possible as people are not aware of the risks it can carry. It is important that we dispose the used masks, gloves properly and help avoid the spread of infections. Some people are picking up the used masks and reusing them which is putting their life in danger.
According to a study 75% of the estimated mask could end up in landfill or the sea. Discarded single-use face masks used to stop the spread of coronavirus could be causing significant harm to the environment. Most of these masks contain or are made of polypropylene, which does not break down quickly. Marine plastic pollution is a serious problem.
It is estimated that every year, over eight million tons of plastic enter our oceans. This plastic does not disappear but rather slowly breaks down into micro-plastic, which enters food chains, with devastating effect. As the pandemic is likely to drag on, we should address these plastic pollution issues immediately.
- It is better to use reusable cloth masks that can be washed, dried and reused.
- Each person should have their own masks and not share among family members.
- Decontaminate the used masks, gloves etc, with sanitizer, cut them and dispose them in separate bags and not mix them with household stuff.
- The disposed masks, gloves could be a potential source for the spread of the deadly contagious virus and should be treated as medical waste. But there is no mechanism for collecting and disposing of these currently.
Mrs. D.A. Kalpaja
Chairperson
Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre
