JAKARTA - Government spokesman for the handling of COVID-19, Achmad Yurianto, said that the use of face shields but not accompanied by the use of masks is ineffective in preventing transmission of COVID-19.
Because, the use of a face shield only protects the front. In fact, saliva or sneezing (droplets) and airborne (microdroplets) can still splash from the gaps on the side.
"We liken the use of a face shield without using a mask to a person who only uses an umbrella. It can protect against water droplets from above, but does not protect it from the side," said Yuri at Graha BNPB, East Jakarta, Saturday, July 11.
Therefore, said Yuri, the most effective personal protective equipment (PPE) used by the general public when outside the home or doing activities is the use of masks.
"Keep using a mask as safety. It's like wearing a full raincoat, so that water droplets from above from the side can also be avoided," he said.
Yuri said that as much as possible the community should wear comfortable cloth masks. Also try to make sure that the mask is not too thick so that it does not make it difficult to breathe.
Because, one of the factors that most contributed to the most positive cases was indiscipline with wearing a mask. Those who were not disciplined wearing masks said they were uncomfortable with the masks.
"We see that there are a lot of people who use cloth masks that are designed too thick, so that it becomes uncomfortable to breathe and often the users put their masks down just covering their mouths with the excuse that they can't breathe," he said.
Yuri also suggested that people use masks that are comfortable and can be obtained easily, but are really able to protect the airways, nose and mouth well.
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