Use of Mask in COVID-19 Epidemic among Healthcare Workers - A Questionnaire-Based Survey

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has reached pandemic proportions and the health care workers (HCW) are receiving a higher influx of patients who are COVID-19. After affecting numerous other countries, the virus is now tightening it’s grip in India as well. While some HCWs are involved in direct care and contact of COVID positive patients in designated centers, others are catering to the other essential services in non-COVID areas.  The use of a mask is different in different areas. The debate about which mask to use and when to use has been going on for a long time now. The aim of this study is to assess the awareness about the use of mask and its disposal and reuse during this COVID-19 pandemic in doctors and paramedical fraternity in the Indian health care settings. This is a questionnaire-based survey adapted from current interim guidelines and information for healthcare personnel provided by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO.