NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Vanderbilt University Medical Center has offered some tips on how to stay cool while wearing masks during the hot summer months.
Dr. David Aronoff, director of the Division of Infectious Diseases at VUMC, said social distancing is still the top recommendation for keeping COVID-19 at bay when leaving home.
When you do have to leave the house, Dr. Aronoff suggested the following when wearing masks:
- “If you can socially distance outdoors, you might not need to wear a mask. Keep that in mind.”
- “Wear sunscreen and/or sun hats with wide brims and stay hydrated.”
- “When taking off or putting on masks be sure to practice good hand hygiene first. Have hand sanitizer handy in case you cannot wash your hands (for 20 seconds) using soap and water.”
- “Bring extra masks if your cloth mask is at risk for getting wet.”
Aronoff added that your face covering should fit comfortably and not restrict your breathing. If masks aren't an option, he said translucent face shields should be considered.
“These are inexpensive, can be washed easily and reused,” he said. “They also allow people to see your whole face. Since face shields reach from the forehead to below the chin and around to cover the ears, they can be more comfortable than masks for some.”
To help prevent getting too hot while wearing a mask, he urged that you stay hydrated and shaded.
