Other than maintaining social distance and hand washing, people are wearing face masks as a way to protect themselves. However, we need to pay attention to the method of mask disposal after using it. Recently, a video had gone viral because it shows us that the public simply threw their masks away after using it.
YouTube Source: YouTube Channel of Sinchew Daily
The health of the people would be endangered when they come into contact with used masks, especially those that have respiratory excretions on them.
The garbage collectors are vulnerable and they could be a source of infection when they come into contact with the used masks.
If the disposed masks are washed into rivers and the sea, they would negatively affect marine life too.
Photo Source: The Medium
The experts advised the public to put the masks in a plastic bag before disposing of it as general waste.
According to Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, the authorities could consider education and awareness campaigns as well as legislation to control irresponsible behavior or correct stubborn offenders in the interest of public health. Legislation must be the final option if advice, persuasion, and warning fail.
Mask manufacturers could also print a set of instructions on the method of disposal.
Source: The Star || Sinchew Daily
Cover Photo: Friends of the Earth Scotland || Business Insider
