Because of the coronavirus pandemic, many states are requiring people to wear cloth face coverings when they enter businesses or venture out in public. These masks are designed to protect others and slow the spread of the virus. To get the proper use out of them, you need to wear masks properly. Whether you’re going to pick up food or heading to your local pharmacy, here are tips to keep yourself and others protected.

Wash Your Hands

Before leaving the house and putting on a face mask, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Your mask should also be washed between each use, or you can use a new one if you have the disposable variety. This prevents individuals from breathing in potential contaminants from past trips out in public, and prevents the spread of germs from the hands to the face.

Cover the Nose, Mouth, & Chin

For a mask to be effective, it needs to cover the areas where particles travel. COVID-19 is a respiratory disease, so that means it affects the mouth and nose. Covering the chin also prevents particles from easily escaping.

Some masks have a bendable top that you can contour around the top of your nose to secure it in place. Then, pull the bottom down below the chin to keep it secure. Place the straps around your ears or tie them around the back of your head to keep it in place, and try not to touch it once you’re out of the house.

Remove Carefully

Once you’re done running errands, remove the mask touching just the straps around your ears or the back of your head. Pull it away from your face as you remove it so there’s less chance of exposure to potential contaminants. If you’re not able to wash the mask right away, place it in a sealable bag. Then, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer.

Even during uncertain times, the staff at Anderson Pharmacy is available to serve your health and wellness needs. This pharmacy has been serving the local community in Denver, PA, for more than 30 years, offering prescriptions, greeting cards, gifts, and knowledgeable and friendly service. Visit the pharmacy at 2590 N. Reading Rd. or call (717) 484-2649 to speak with a helpful staff member. Visit the website to see a selection of products.