Covid-19: Masks & The New Normal

It’s fair to say that you may have grown accustomed to changes in all of our lives since the beginning of the pandemic, from wearing masks everywhere to social distancing guidelines.

After almost two years of a modified lifestyle in order to protect yourself and people around you, you might be experiencing feelings of anxiety as mask mandates are lifted around the world.

 

Over the last week or so, a handful of states in the US, and countries further afield, have lifted their mask mandates, pointing to the dramatic drop in daily Covid-19 cases.

A number of provinces in Canada, such as Alberta and Saskatchewan, revealed plans to drop vaccination passports and mask requirements, but the majority of provinces are sticking with gradual re-openings.

 

If you’re someone who is impacted by “no mask anxiety”, or are someone who is nervous about a mask-less world, experts say it’s completely normal and will likely be increasingly common post-pandemic.

Just because other people aren’t wearing masks doesn’t mean you have to take yours off, too. Move at a pace you’re comfortable with, and move gradually onward from there.

 

The head of the World Health Organization insisted last week that “Covid isn’t finished with us”, so for those who intend to continue to wear masks daily, here are a few tips:

 

• Choose a mask that’s clean, dry and damage free.
• Choose a mask that fits well and fully covers your nose, mouth and chin.
• Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before and after touching a mask.
• Use the ties, bands or ear loops to put on and take off your mask.
• Store your mask in a clean paper or cloth bag if you plan to wear it again.
• Change your mask when it’s dirty, damp or damaged, and keep it out of reach of others.

 

When layered with other recommended public health measures, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn mask can help prevent the spread of COVID-19.