Allergies? Asthma? Air pollution? Wearing a face mask can protect against more than just COVID-19, here are three other ways a mask can benefit your health:
- Allergies and asthma: An estimated 40 million to 60 million Americans suffer from allergic rhinitis due to allergens such as mold, pollen, and dust mites. A face mask can prevent these allergens from entering the nose, throat, and lungs, reducing the severity of symptoms. Research found that 92% of pollen allergy sufferers had moderate to severe symptoms before the pandemic, which dropped to 56% during the pandemic when wearing masks. Wearing a mask can also be beneficial for those with asthma, as pollen can trigger an attack.
2. Pollution: Air pollution can cause serious health problems, particularly heart disease, with an estimated 7-9 million deaths each year linked to air pollution. A mask can block some of the harmful particles that you inhale, making it useful for those working with pollutants. A mask with an N95 rating is recommended to provide the best protection against air pollution.
3. Flu, RSV and other respiratory illnesses: The flu, RSV, and COVID-19 are all respiratory illnesses that spread through the air. High-quality masks such as N95 can help block the germs that cause these illnesses. Masks can also reduce exposure of the respiratory system to cold air during the winter months, making it more difficult for infections to occur.
In addition to wearing a mask, other preventive measures such as getting flu and COVID shots, and avoiding contact with sick people should also be taken to prevent respiratory illnesses.
More information:
Buy Face Mask online at Caloksy and enjoy huge discounts across the entire range:
Latest information on where face masks are mandatory in Victoria:
Face masks – when to wear a face mask | Coronavirus Victoria
COVID-19 information and advice for Victorian public transport users, including mask advice:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Public Transport Victoria (ptv.vic.gov.au)