5 types of mask-wearers in Malaysia exposed

As of Aug 1, the government has made wearing a face mask in public compulsory. (Rawpixel pic)

PETALING JAYA: As of August 1, the government has made it compulsory for everyone to wear face masks in public areas as well as when taking public transportation.

While it’s understandable that wearing face masks take some getting used to, especially when your warm breath fogs up your spectacles, the potentially deadly coronavirus is not going away any time soon just because you’re feeling uncomfortable or find wearing a face mask a complete and utter nuisance.

There is a right way to wear a face mask and many wrong ways as a quick look around will show.

Looks like that despite the many public awareness campaigns in the media and online, some Malaysians are just immune to learning how to do things right.

Here are just some of the many ways face masks are being worn during the Covid-19 pandemic.

1. The compliant ones

A properly worn three-ply surgical mask may help block transmission of large-particle microorganisms from droplets, sprays, splatters, and splashes.

There is only one way to wear a face mask correctly and that is with the coloured side facing out. Also make sure you achieve a snug fit.

Of course, ensure you wash or sanitise your hands property before putting on the mask. Also, keep the face mask on at all times in this fashion.

2. The half-compliant ones

Your face mask should cover both your nose and your mouth, with the mask secured under your chin.

You can find many people confidently walking around totally oblivious that their face masks are resting right under their noses.

This renders the function of the mask completely moot because you can still inhale the virus through your exposed nostrils, or exhale viral particles and spread them to other unsuspecting people through your nose.

When wearing a face mask, make sure it completely covers your nose.

3. The barely compliant ones

Since you don’t breathe through your neck, why have your face mask rest there?

Unfortunately, many Malaysians think having a face mask located somewhere in the vicinity of their face is sufficient to safeguard them from the potentially deadly coronavirus and to stop them spreading it to others.

Yes, this is the infamous method of wearing a face mask under the chin and on the neck, with the common excuse that “even though it’s around my neck, I’m still doing my social duty by wearing it.”

Even health director-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah stressed that a face mask must be worn properly if it is to be effective in preventing the spread of diseases.

He said the face mask should cover the entire nose up to the chin. Leaving it around the forehead or neck, or having it only partially covering the nose and mouth is not appropriate, and is in fact dangerous as it poses a risk of contamination or infection.

You heard the man, get your face mask positions right, people!

4. The ear-hang ones

This manner of mask-wearing is also a common sight in Malaysia.

Shockingly, way too many people have been seen wearing their face mask in such a manner.

Is it a fashion statement? An earring? Or pure forgetfulness that the mask you removed while enjoying your meal never found its way back over your nose and mouth after lunch?

Pay attention, people. Be diligent about wearing your face mask right to prevent Covid-19 transmission.

5. The rebels

Looks like diehard smokers can’t be stopped from taking a puff even when wearing their face masks.

Lastly, you’ll have this bunch, the smokers who won’t let any disease, no matter how potentially deadly, cramp their style.

You can find these rebels huffing and puffing away, ciggie in hand and mask resting discreetly on chin while “Operation Smoke” goes into full swing.

So, a virus or two is lurking in the air? So what? A craving has to be satisfied even if it involves a covert operation in broad daylight.

It’s time Malaysians took mask-wearing seriously. Make sure the fabric covers your nose and mouth completely including your chin. Also ensure you secure the face mask firmly over the bridge of your nose.

Tighten the loops or ties so it fits snugly over your cheeks, without gaps.

Always remember to wear a face mask wherever you are. If you persist in being a rebel, be prepared to pay a hefty sum of RM1,000 when you’re slapped with a summons.

So, mask on the right way and practise social distancing, folks! - FMT