MoPH highlights important steps to follow when wearing a face mask

In recent weeks, there has been a notable increase in the number of newly diagnosed COVID-19 patients, according to healthcare officials.

Statistics indicate that there has been an 85 percent increase in the number of hospital admissions of COVID-19 cases, including ICU admissions. 

Experts have warned if this trend continues, the authorities may have to implement the early phases of COVID-19 restrictions.

Health care workers urge the public to continue to adhere to COVID-19 preventive measures to avoid a second wave of infections in Qatar. pic.twitter.com/qoGHu9leRY

— وزارة الصحة العامة (@MOPHQatar) January 31, 2021

The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) has been urging the public to adhere to the preventive measures and act now to avoid the second wave of infections.

In a post on its Twitter page, the Ministry highlighted some important steps to remember when using a face mask.

"Face masks are a proven way to help prevent the spread of COVID-19," the post reads.

Follow these steps when wearing a mask:

• Wash your hands before putting on the mask
• Ensure the mask covers your nose and mouth and fits snugly under your chin, over the bridge of your nose, and against the sides of your face.
• Do not touch the front of your mask while wearing it or when removing it. If you do touch the mask, wash or sanitize your hands immediately.
• Do not allow the mask to hang around your neck
• Wash or sanitize your hands immediately after removing the mask

It is also important to change your mask when it is visibly soiled or moist, the Ministry underlined.

People with chronic respiratory conditions should seek medical advice before using a face mask.

Face masks are a proven way to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Follow these steps when wearing a mask:
#Yoursafetyismysafety pic.twitter.com/fsKmKY37zx

— وزارة الصحة العامة (@MOPHQatar) February 1, 2021

In a press conference held by the Ministry earlier on Thursday, Dr Abdullatif Al Khal, Chair of the National Health Strategic Group on COVID-19 and Head of Infectious Diseases at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) said, the increasing number of new COVID-19 cases and in the number of people hospitalized every week is a matter of concern as it may be signs of a new wave of the pandemic in Qatar.

For this reason, he said, everyone must observe the required preventive and precautionary measures to "cut off the second wave before it gains momentum."

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