While everyone is rushing to purchase the now become “high-priced” face mask, authorities warn — wearing a face mask could only give a false sense of security against corona virus.

In his statement, while discussing how Corona Virus or COVID-19 is transmitted, Singapore Health Minister Gan Kim Yong warns that wearing a face mask could only give us a false sense of security. Why? Because we are more likely to touch our faces when we constantly adjust our face mask, giving higher possibility that the virus reach our mouth and nose.

Corona Virus / COVID-19 transmission

Evidence suggests that the transmission of corona virus or Covid-19 is mostly via droplets. What this means is that, “the virus is carried within droplets emitted from an infected person through coughing or sneezing.” If these droplets come into contact with the eyes, nose or mouth of an healthy person he or she may get infected.

The virus could be transmitted DIRECTLY from infected person to the healthy ones. This is where social distancing applies to avoid direct contact with anyone. Please read this separate article about social distancing.

Meanwhile, corona virus could also be transmitted INDIRECTLY thru surface contact. Minister Young explains that when the infected person sneezes or coughs, the droplets may fall into the surface of tables and chairs. The virus may remain alive for few days. When someone touches the infected surface, the virus can be transferred to his / her hands then rub his eyes or nose without washing his hands, that person may become infected.

Also Read: WHO COVID-19 UPDATES: Tragic milestone and Success

“Potential infection from asymptomatic person is less likely to be from coughing or sneezing directly because they don’t have symptoms but more likely by touching contaminated surfaces for which masks offer no protection,” Minister Young explains.

“Wearing a masks when we are well often give us a false sense of security instead. Because we are more likely to touch our faces when we constantly adjust our masks which is one way the disease reach our mouth and nose,” he added.

No cure for Corona Virus / COVID-19

Persons exposed to the virus maybe well for few days before developing symptoms such as fever, cough and some may develop pneumonia eventually.

There is currently no known cure or treatment for corona virus. The development of the successful cure may take time, maybe months or years. The current approach is to provide good supportive care for the patients to reduce complications and to allow time for the patient to recover.

Prevention is the key

As such health professional advise the most effective way that we can protect ourselves against corona virus is to practice good personal hygiene. We should regularly wash our hands with soap and water and avoid touching our face with our hands.

“These may sound simple but actually very difficult to do because all of us touches our face all the time. It is simple but extremely difficult yet very effective in preventing all kinds of infection,” Minister Young concluded.

For more information visit: World Health Organisation website.

Also watch Singapore Health Minister Gan Kim Yong statement to Parliament about Corona Virus.