A Cork doctor is warning that face-masks should be a key part of Ireland’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
The Government has said it will not be directing the general public to wear face masks in order to limit the spread of the virus.
On Newstalk Breakfast however, Dr Nick Flynn from MyCorkGP.ie said everyone should be wearing face masks when leaving the house.
“The evidence internationally is gaining momentum and, if you look at countries that have a lot more experience dealing with coronavirus, COVID-19 and SARs outbreaks than we have in Europe, masks for all are essential parts of their risk reduction strategies,” he said.
“Europe is catching up now and we have the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Bosnia Herzegovina recommending masks for all now.
German artist Mansha Friedrich shows a crocheted respirator mask with exchangeable fabric inlays, 26-04-2020. Image: Julian Stratenschulte/DPA/PA Images“Over the weekend, Turkey said they would be providing five masks per week for citizens and Germany are considering it too.
“So, there is space for additional risk-reductions measures and masks for all would be helpful.”
He said cotton masks are relatively easy to make in the home – and surgical or medical-grade masks should be saved for frontline healthcare workers.
He shared a handy set of instructions for making your own mask in the home.
Good morning @98FM
Here are the @CDCgov instructions to making home made #facemasks that we used for @myCorkGP
I protect you, You protect me.#Masks4All #masksforall#98FM #BigBreakfast pic.twitter.com/XqERHhHtRk
— Nick I believe asymptomatic people spread #Covid19 (@drnickgp) April 6, 2020
He said the masks offer an extra layer of protection and should not be seen as a replacement for the social distancing and public health guidelines that are already in place.
“It is important for people to remember these masks protect the public from the wearer,” he said.
“It is not going to stop us needing to practice handwashing, social distancing and all the other measures.
A woman wearing a face mask on Dublin's O'Connell Street this morning, 06-04-2020. Image: Leah Farrell/RollingNews"It is an additional measure. They are relatively easy to wear. They should be washed in a hot wash every day and, used correctly, they will be an additional measure to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
“It is not a medical-grade mask. It is a not a replacement of other public health and personal protective messaging. It is in addition and it is I protect you; you protect me.”
You can listen back to Dr Flynn's chat with Shane Coleman on Newstalk Breakfast here:
