Odisha: In heat & humidity, mask of discomfort
BHUBANESWAR: As the temperature continues to soar pushing up the humidity level as well, people are finding it difficult to keep the mask on. While many are struggling to breathe properly in masks, others have been complaining of skin infection owing to profuse sweating. However, with a resurgence of fresh cases in some states, the state government does not want its citizens to drop their guard.
“We are aware that masks and social distancing are the most effective non-clinical ways of keeping ourselves protected from coronavirus. But with temperatures going past the 40° Celsius-mark, it is difficult for anyone to keep the mouth covered for long. It can get suffocating,” Rupashree Panda, who is an office-goer, said.
It’s mandatory to wear masks in public places, while using public transport, in marketplaces and offices as per the Covid guidelines. However, many continue to flout the rule with impunity, forcing the government to step up its enforcement of the Covd-19 rules.
Sradhanjali Mishra, a schoolteacher said, “Taking classes on the campus wearing a mask is very difficult for me. I have to constantly keep talking to students covering my face with a multi-layered mask, which leads to profuse sweating and panting. Even students, who remain in school for nearly six hours, have to wear the mask throughout the class hours. It is extremely uncomfortable to do so for them as well. But we have been asked to ensure that no one takes off the mask during school hours. Though we can understand and empathise with the plight of students, we cannot help the situation.”
Some also complained of wearing masks for the better part of the day leading to skin irritation and rashes. “I suddenly noticed acne all over my jaw line. When I consulted a doctor, he said it was owing to the use of a mask for long hours and prescribed some medicines,” Radhika Rao, a student, said.
Experts said people can find a way out of this by keeping spare masks and changing these after regular intervals. They must avoid going out during peak hours and select triple-layer cotton masks instead of synthetic or polyster ones, they added.
“We are making three-layer masks with soft cotton or handloom fabrics, which are safe for the skin and also comfortable to wear during summer. Besides, it is advisable to take the mask off when no one is around,” Namita Mondal, a mask manufacturer of the city, said.