Some drivers across Tampa Bay have been spotted wearing face masks behind the wheel. But is it necessary?
Dr. Paul Nanda, TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track chief medical officer, says wearing a mask is a good idea if you are sick and someone else is in the car with you.
He says it also makes sense if you are carpooling or ride-sharing.
Otherwise, it could create other dangers. Like reducing your field of vision.
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“I’ve seen people wearing bandannas and homemade masks pretty high on their face, and then you’re actually worrying about having a car accident because you’re wearing a mask,” said Nanda.
Nanda also says people need to be cautious when taking on and off a mask. It should be removed from the back to the front.
Also, remember to sanitize your hands anytime you put it on, take it off or touch it.
He suggests storing your mask in a brown paper bag because the material is porous, and the virus doesn’t live as well on porous surfaces compared to hard surfaces.
“I think a lot of people think that wearing a mask protects them, but you’re really protecting everybody else by wearing a mask,” said Nanda.