As of date, the Philippines is close to 170k cases. It prompted the reclassification of multiple metros to MECQ, halting economic activities once again. But assurance of a fix to slow down the growth of infection numbers are still quite bleak.
(Check this article if you don’t know the differences between the types of quarantine.)
With the Philhealth facing multiple scandals of corruption, many are quite anxious about what the future holds. There are no more Philhealth funds to circulate. Businesses are closing down.
Now, the record high 45.5% adult unemployment will profoundly affect the lifestyle of everyone. What can we do? It’s like every Filipino now will have to fend off for themselves. Probably alone.
Wearing Face Shields
Well, the government provided one more solution. The Philippines mandated everyone to wear face shields on top of social distancing and face masks requirements. It is according to the DOTR memorandum for all public transportations. And it’s also required for all private businesses, which will be coming out from their pockets.
This announcement came abruptly, making all businesses frantic to purvey their own protective gear. The need is so high; the demand went as far as people looking for face shields in the 100,000 pieces and more. (For the sellers and wholesalers though, be careful of face shield scams.)
But what does this entail for us? Even if we have online jobs today, we still need to go out a few times for certain errands. Are we really protected better?
Are Face Shields Effective?
First of all, does it really matter? Does having a face shield a better step than just a face mask?
According to an article published in the Loma Linda University, N95 respirator masks are better overall because of its ability to filter smaller particles. But not everyone has access to it.
People use a variety of protection like cloth, bandanas, etc. that provide varying degrees of protection. But all of these can result in better safety when combined with a face shield.
The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) adapted the measure because it’s believed that the use of a face shield and mask with social distancing reduce the risk by 99%. And that it can also reduce the infection rate by 93%.
To add, face shields are also economical because you just have to disinfect it with soap and water or alcohol.
What Face Shield Should You Get?
Aside from being a requirement, there are many face shields available. Which one should you buy? Should you get the stylish “robocop-type” face shields? Or are the normal cheap ones good enough?
According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, the most effective one are face shields that extend below the chin. It’s also better that it covers the ears and no gap between the forehead and shield’s headpiece.
What Will Happen If You Don’t Comply?
President Duterte runs the pandemic control with an iron fist. “Wear face masks or arrests,” is quite the daring slogan for this campaign. It would probably trickle down with the face shields as well.
Penalties differ from local government unit to local government unit. But it ranges from a few thousand pesos to probable jail time. Well, it’s for the country, the community, and for yourself. So it’s better just to comply. *Cue Kim Chiu’s music*.
Just in case you contracted the virus, here is a guide to help you manage and find ways to help you expenses during the trying times.
For everyone else, please stay safe! Practice proper hygiene, social distancing, and wear your freaking masks.
