The COVID-19 Task Force Does Not Recommend To Use The Trending Mask Strap Necklace

JAKARTA - There are times when a person has to remove their mask while doing activities during a pandemic. For example, when eating and drinking. Over time, accessories that support the use of masks have emerged, namely mask strap necklaces or mask straps.

This necklace functions as a hanger for the mask when it is being removed, as well as supporting its appearance. mask strap necklaces are now becoming a trend that is used by many people. Moreover, the prices sold on the market are quite cheap, around IDR 5 thousand to IDR 25 thousand.

However, it turns out that the use of a mask strap necklace is not recommended. Head of the COVID-19 Task Force Health Management Division, National Army General TNI Dr. Alexander K. Ginting said that a mask hanging around the neck using a necklace increases the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

First, when you are wearing a mask during your activities and chatting, it is likely that the virus will stick to the outside of the mask.

Then, someone could unconsciously touch the outside of the mask without washing their hands again. Then, when the mask is removed and attached to the mask strap necklace, it is possible that the hand will also touch the inside of the mask.

"What we are worried about is the mask removal. If our fingers touch the outside of the mask, and then we put it back on, the hook hits the inside. That's the problem", Alexander said in a National Board for Disaster Management (BNPB) Indonesia YouTube broadcast, quoted by VOI on Thursday, 25 February.

In addition, when traveling to a public space, the mask is removed and attached to the mask strap necklace, the mask will automatically stick to the clothes. It is possible that the virus can transmit from the clothes or hoods you wear.

"It is possible that the virus sticks to the outside when we chat or go to public spaces. It could be on our neck or clothes. If we put the mask down, maybe it could hit the hijab or clothes. From there we will catch the virus", he explained.