Is there any point in wearing facemasks?
There isn’t much point in wearing a facemask, unless you are a care provider working with patients. Not all facemasks protect against viruses and they can also be a hindrance. A mask quickly gives a false sense of security and can generate additional risks; people tend to adjust facemasks frequently, which means constantly putting their hands near their faces. This increases the risk of infection.
However, if you are an infected patient, then wearing a facemask does make sense. A mask prevents droplets infected with the virus from getting into the air, because they get caught in the mask. If you are ill, but do not have a facemask available, then sneeze and cough into your elbow, or use disposable paper handkerchiefs (tissues).
In an aircraft
It is a commonly held belief that diseases are more easily transmitted on board aircraft, because everyone spends hours breathing the same air. This is a myth. The air in aircraft is continually renewed with fresh air drawn in from outside. This air is first warmed by the aircraft’s engines before being pumped into the cabin. Some of the air is circulated, but this is cleaned using very efficient filters that remove pathogens.
In an aircraft you do sit very close to one another. It is therefore hard to keep a distance of at least 1 metre if someone is in the seat next to you. Should you worry about every person who coughs or sneezes near you? No, that isn’t necessary. Only when there is a combination of symptoms (fever, respiratory complaints) AND a link to a region where there is a coronavirus outbreak, there should be cause for alarm. Besides, people who have been to an infected region and who are displaying coronavirus symptoms are not allowed to fly.
Passengers are being tested at airports in China before they board flights.
Is it still safe for me to travel?
There is no need to worry about travelling to most countries at the moment. However, it is wise to keep yourself up-to-date with the latest information surrounding travel risks.
The most important steps you can take against the new coronavirus when travelling are very simple. Follow the general hygiene rules that apply to all common cold and flu viruses. It is important that these steps are always taken:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
- Cough and sneeze into the inside of your elbow and use paper handkerchiefs (tissues);
- Stay away from ill people and animals;
- Only consume animal products that have been thoroughly heated.