COVID-19 Story Tip: The Importance of Staying Cool While Wearing a Mask Outside in the Summer Heat.

[2greys]

The rising temperatures of summer also mean a rising potential for heat-related illnesses. As the coronavirus pandemic continues, this summer will feature a new heat-related risk factor: face coverings.

“When the heat comes back, we need to be extra cognizant that masks, while important to wear for mitigating the spread of coronavirus, could make things worse for some people,” says Matthew Levy, D.O., M.Sc., an associate professor of emergency medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. “They may result in added stress on the body.”

Health officials encourage everyone to wear a mask outside when around others, and Levy encourages people to be strategic and calculated when going outside, particularly if they have a respiratory condition or underlying health problems that put them at increased risk for COVID-19, such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Levy also cautions that people should pay attention to signs of heat illness such as dizziness, lightheadedness and dehydration, particularly while wearing face coverings.

hopkinsmedicine.org/news/ne...

[Bkin]

Would anyone really need to wear a mask outside? Oh in congested cities like London I guess may be advisable where safe distancing may be difficult.

[2greys in reply to Bkin]

Have you ever traveled on the Underground, it is really hot down there. A visit to Kew Gardens even. Many examples exist. Not all Shops have air conditioning either, if you are wearing a mask inside them, how long before it becomes mandatory in shops I wonder, as the Gov struggle to control the virus whilst maintaining the gain within the economy as the lockdown is lifted.

[Hidden in reply to 2greys]

Something else I don’t understand - why are face coverings compulsory on public transport but not in shops?! Where’s the sense in that? I think they should be compulsory in all public indoor areas, except pubs & cafés obviously

[2greys in reply to Hidden]

With the new 1 metre plus rule, I think that it is inevitable that will be introduced as the shops get busier.

[Lizzie20 in reply to 2greys]

The 1 metre is only if 2 metres isn't possible, not mandatory.

[Bkin in reply to Hidden]

shops are supposed to be making adjustments for safe distance and some shops that can't I suspect will be requiring customers to wear masks.

[Bkin in reply to 2greys]

Yes I have, but I don't intend travelling to London this year at all, if I was living there I would seriously be considering staying inside indefinitely. My brother says you just can't safe distance not even out in the street.

[Jaybird19 in reply to 2greys]

I believe that Aldi already ask for masks to be worn. I

[peege in reply to Bkin]

I wear a mask when I go out in my town. People just arent safe distancing, most are I must add. Joggers go panting by every so often- I cough loudly as they pass too close. Only take the mask off when I'm passed the shopping street, clean one for return trip.

[Bkin in reply to peege]

which masks are you using peege?

[peege in reply to Bkin]

elle.com, not perfect however, I'm oh so careful. I believe they're much improved since I got mine. The fabric is treated with antiviral (possibly anti moisture though can't remember that bit).

[Bkin in reply to peege]

thanks peege, will go check them out.