Avoid Buying New Masks From Vendors Or Wash Before Using It – NCDC

The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control, NCDC has issued an advisory to Nigerians on how they can wear a cloth face mask.

NCDC recently revealed that if any citizen wears a cloth mask, he or she has to use it while obeying other containment measures.

According to NCDC, the measures remain, avoiding large gatherings, physical distancing by maintaining a distance of 2 metres between yourself and others, regular handwashing with soap under running water, and frequent cleaning of surfaces with soap and water or disinfectants.

The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control added that citizens should not try to buy new masks from vendors or wear immediately after buying because it has to be washed first before use.

A recent statement read, “Other recommendations are; don’t try on new masks from vendors or wear immediately after purchasing; Wash before first use, don’t reuse a cloth face mask before it has been washed and dried, don’t leave a used face mask on uncleaned surfaces or in the reach of small children while not in use, don’t pull down your mask to cough or sneeze. Use a tissue or your bent elbow over the mask until you can safely remove the mask for washing.

“It is very important that cloth face masks are handled and cared for properly to avoid the further Spread of infectious agents.

Please adhere to the following guidelines for the use of cloth face masks: make sure the mask has been washed and is unused before first wear. Wash your hands with soap under running water before touching the mask. If water is not available, use a hand sanitiser.

Cover your nose and mouth completely with the mask making sure it fits snuggly with no open gaps. Avoid touching or adjusting the mask while it is on 5. Wash or sanitise your hands before removing the mask by the straps. Wash the mask immediately with soap or detergent and allow it to dry completely in the sun and before re-use, iron the mask.”