Essential protective gear while stepping out during COVID-19

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live our lives, work, and socialise. Protecting ourselves from the virus has become imperative. The only way to remain protected even as offices, schools, colleges, malls, and other institutions open up is to use essential protective gear.

·        Face mask – Face masks are possibly the most important protective gear that you will need when you step out. In fact, most shops, institutions, airlines, cabs etc. have made face masks mandatory for everyone.  The face mask should cover your nose and mouth preventing any infection from droplets when you speak, cough, or sneeze. While single-use disposable face masks are preferable, any mask with two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric also offers adequate protection. If you wear a reusable or washable mask, it is important that it be washed in detergent and dried in sunlight before you use it again.

·        Face Shield – With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of transparent face shields has also become quite popular. Face shields provide protection from spread of droplets in case of close contact or face-to-face communication. They protect the entire face acting as a shield. It is important to remember, however, that face shields are not to be used as substitutes for face masks. They can be used without masks when interacting with someone who suffers from hearing impairment and reads lips. In this case, it is important to maintain adequate distance as well.

·        Sanitizer & Gloves – Apart from infected droplets, the COVID-19 virus can also be spread by touching infected surfaces and subsequently and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth without washing your hands. Regular hand washing and use of sanitisers are of great importance when it comes from prevention of COVID-19 infection. It is important to carry a 500 ml hand sanitizer bottle as you step out. You may want to use disposable gloves when caring for a family member who is already infected or during use of public transportation/ATM machines etc. Remember to remove gloves and dispose them safely before proceeding to touch other surfaces at home.

·        PPE Kits – Personal protective equipment (PPE) or coveralls are not usually necessary. You may, however, want to use coveralls and PPE kits if caring for a patient at home or while visiting a hospital or a medical facility where the risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus is deemed high. Disposable medical grade coverall PPE kits are available online with medical stockists such as Smart Medical Buyer.

·        Hair Covers – The use of disposable hair covers is considered optional for the general masses but it is an integral part of the PPE kits used by medical personnel while treating patients.

·        Shoe Cover – While many consider shoe covers superfluous, doctors, nurses, and medical personnel consider it an integral part of the PPE kits. Working in close contact with infected patients and exposed to high-risk scenarios, it is important that disposable shoe covers be used by frontline workers.

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