Health Hazards and Protocol for Management of Used Facemasks Outside Hospitals during SARCOV-2 Pandemic

Abstract :

Background: SARS-CoV-2 is highly infectious pathogenic disease leading to infection and death of millions of people all over the world till the date according to the data provided by John Hopkins University. Peoples have started using various types of mask to protect themselves from getting infected from the deadly corona virus. There has also been large amount of confusion in general public about disposal of the mask as most of them are using for first time in their life. Even healthcare professionals may be unaware of the methods of disposal of the masks outside their hospitals. This mask may carry infections from asymptomatic, SARS-CoV-2 patients that if it comes in contact with other peoples and animals may have severe bio health hazards.

Observation & Management of facemasks: Since the SARS-COV-2 pandemic outbreak since March 2020, personally, we found out that peoples a carelessly throwing masks everywhere including streets, parking lots, beaches, building complexes, sewages and homes. These masks may have been used by asymptomatic carriers or have got infected with these viruses is hazardous not only to the health of the public but also for the household waste collectors, pet animals and marine animals. Disinfecting with sodium hypochlorite * decontaminating methods like washing facemasks and drying in sunlight, pressure cooker sterilisation method, boiling, by using laundry detergent and hot dryer and cleaning in washing machine, etc.

Conclusion & Relevance: The objective of these articles is to alert the public & health care professionals to understand the hazards of throwing the facemasks at public places and preventive measure to be taken during this pandemic time and various methods of decontamination, pre-treatment and disposal of facemask avoiding severe health hazards.