The National Department of Health has recommended that South Africans wear CLOTH face masks when out in public as a means to slow down the spread of COVID-19.
Health Minister Zweli Mkhize stressed that using three layers of cloth are important.
With this being said, hand washing and social distancing remain top priority when taking preventative measures.
-The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa (2020).
How to make a mask:
A cloth mask can be made in any non- industrial or domestic setup, and is relatively simple to make. There are many videos on YouTube demonstrating a step by step guide on how to make a cloth mask with varying design.
The following is the Western Cape Government approved cloth mask standard:
A cloth mask typically comprises square pieces of cloth with three pleats that can cover the face from ABOVE the nose to BELOW the chin and almost up to the ears.
Materials:
Outer layers: Two layers, an inner and outer surface of the mask:
- Made from thick weave cotton like denim, calico or upholstery cotton fabric that can be easily washed
- Comprising two different patterns on the cloth – if possible – to distinguish between inside and outside of the cloth mask
Inner layers: Two layers of ordinary cotton typically used for linen:
- If possible – between the two inner cotton layers – a laminate breathable layer of non- woven fabric which is washable at high temperatures – or if you don’t have that, something like a jacket lining inner.
- Strings or straps which can be tied behind the head.