When removing a mask, should you handle it only by the ties or elastic bands?

Handling a mask only by the ties or elastic bands is crucial for maintaining hygiene and preventing contamination. Masks can trap harmful particles, pathogens, or contaminants on their surface. When you remove a mask, touching only the ties or elastic bands minimizes the risk of transferring these potentially harmful agents to your hands, face, or other surfaces.

If someone handles the mask by the front surface, they risk exposure to whatever the mask has filtered out, which could lead to health risks. Therefore, following this practice helps ensure that anyone using a mask can do so safely and effectively.

Other options do not emphasize the importance of maintaining hygienic practices during mask removal consistently. Handling a mask in any manner other than by the ties or elastic bands could lead to increased risks of contamination and compromise the protective benefits offered by the mask.