Face mask, tissue, and handkerchiefs.

I was particularly excited when I noticed that the messaging around preventing the spread of body fluid and potentially dangerous droplets were adjusted from face mask to tissue that should be disposed of immediately. The speed of disposal made all the difference for me because Africans generally don’t like the concept of disposal. A typical African home has an average of two items that are reused which are originally designed to be disposed of after one use.

Further down the poverty line, you will see things like reused diapers and sanitary towels because these basic sanitary items are a luxury.

I particularly had concerns when the first set of awareness videos around curbing the spread of droplets were videos on the proper use and disposal of face masks. I felt it will pose a problem because people are used to hanging such masks on their chins. Even I wasn’t aware there were specifications to the use and removal of face masks.

As the numbers began to rise in Africa, it started looking like a fad to have a mask and the disposition of those who had them on made me fear for the worst because it was obvious they were not aware of the inherent dangers associated with it.

The following scenario played out in my mind: 

Bisi is in the mall with a face mask on, droplets get on it, she travels with the contaminated mask back home. Gets home and flings the mask on the table along with her bag, washes her hands, in fact, has a bath and returns to prepare for the next day picks it up and puts it in her bag so she doesn’t forget to use it tomorrow and then goes to do other chores around the house.

As I was recovering from the nightmare of all the places she would have transported the droplet to, I saw some chic looking ladies using the sleeping mask on their noses, at that point, I was just tired.

The fact that whatever is used should be disposed of immediately cannot be overemphasized which is why I for one am very grateful for the way the message is curated.

Tissue paper is easily accessible for most and people are more likely to dispose of immediately after use. Proper disposal is a different kettle of fish altogether.

That little attention to detail makes a whole world of difference in the messaging. 

Do you agree?