In apparel manufacturing, we know that change is the only constant. Everyday presents new opportunities to find creative solutions to the challenges presented in our everyday lives.
The novel coronavirus has changed life as we know it and introduced a new need to protect ourselves and others on a daily basis.
We stepped up to meet this challenge instantly by consulting with physicians and our expert team of pattern makers to engineer The Independence Mask.
Today, employees are working from home, students are distance learning, and most have had to completely adjust their daily routines. Policymakers have established safety measures to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, and with these precautions in place, citizens are practicing social distancing, self-isolation and wearing face coverings whenever they need to step outside their home. While it’s currently enforced, many are wondering if people should continue to wear masks when this pandemic ceases to exist.
The short answer: Yes, you should.
Masks can be worn to protect the wearer from getting infected, but they can also protect others from being infected by the wearer. The primary route of transmission of the coronavirus is through droplet particles that people generate when they speak, cough or sneeze. Because of this, wearing a mask is crucial as it can stop those particles in their tracks before they can transmit the virus.
Due to shortages and an incredible demand for medical supplies, surgical masks are reserved for healthcare workers or other medical first responders. As a result, it is recommended that the general public wears non-surgical, fabric face masks. Research published on Annals of Internal Medicine found that 100% cotton masks blocked 96% of viral load. In combination with social distancing, wearing a mask can greatly reduce the transmission rate of the virus.
In response to the demand, Indie Source has diligently designed and created a face mask that can be used by essential service professionals. The Independence Mask is a 2-ply pocketed fabric mask, which functions as a physical barrier and, when paired with a filtered insert, offers enhanced protection.
To properly wear a mask, wash your hands before putting it on. Put it over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin. To remove it, be sure to handle only by the ear loops or ties and untie the strings behind your head or stretch the ear loops. Place the mask in the washing machine or dispose in the trash. Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose and mouth when removing and wash your hands immediately afterwards. Knowing how to wear and remove a mask can ensure its effectiveness and keep you and others safe.
While masks are essential to daily life more than ever, people should indeed continue to wear them even when the current pandemic ceases to be a threat. Why?
Seasonal illnesses, such as the flu and the common cold, spread through the air. The flu has long been considered a dangerous seasonal illness, and according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 24,000 to 62,000 people die every year due to the flu. Add to that, hundreds of thousands of flu-related patients are hospitalized and millions visit their medical practitioner for flu symptoms.
Taking into consideration what we know about the coronavirus and respiratory transmission, wearing a mask when you have the flu can help prevent onward transmission and reduce the number of deaths and doctor visits every year.
Wearing a mask is more important than ever. It’s not only essential during this pandemic, but it should become the normal practice for protecting others when you are sick, and protecting yourself from others who may not be aware they are carrying a viral infection.
When you wear your #IndependenceMask not only are you protecting yourself and others, but your purchase also provides you, and a service member in need, a mask for protection. When we protect each other, our communities can thrive. Help support our donations by purchasing your 1:1 Independence Mask today.
