How to effectively dispose of used masks?

Wearing masks correctly is an important means of preventing new coronary pneumonia. During the epidemic prevention and control period, the frequency of using and replacing masks has also increased significantly. So, how should used masks be handled effectively in daily life? CDC experts have answered this question.

When in a medical institution, masks can be put directly into medical waste garbage bags, and masks, as medical waste, will be disposed of centrally by professional treatment institutions.

For the general public, the masks that are normally used can be thrown directly into the trash because of the lower risk.

For people suspected of having infectious diseases, the used masks should be handed over to the appropriate staff for disposal as medical waste at the time of consultation or investigation and disposal.

For people with symptoms such as fever, cough, coughing and sneezing, or those who have been in contact with such people, it is recommended that the masks be disposed of by first throwing them into the trash and then using a 5% 84 disinfectant solution in a 1:99 ratio and then spraying it onto the masks. If there is no disinfectant solution, you can also use a sealed bag or plastic bag to seal the mask and throw it into the trash.

In addition, we should be careful not to touch the masks used by others. After the mask is used, do not put it directly into the bag or pocket.