Coronavirus: Shave Yours Beards – CDC; It can spread through phones – WHO

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned that facial hair may interfere with the effectiveness of face masks and respirators used to combat the spread of diseases such as Coronavirus.

Having a beard, stubble, or mutton chops can interfere with the protection provided by the mask, which works to remove contaminants from the air and covers at least the nose and mouth.

READ MORE: Breaking News! First Case of Coronavirus Confirmed in Nigeria.

As the deadly virus, which has infected more than 81,000 people, continues to spread around the globe, millions of people are relying on face masks to keep them from spreading or coming in contact with germs.

CDC has, however, stated that people who are showing symptoms of the coronavirus or are caring for somebody in close settings are the only people who should be wearing facemasks – adding that people who are perfectly healthy need not wear a mask.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization has coronavirus (COVID-19) can be contacted if droplets of infected fluid fell on nearby surfaces and objects such as desks, tables or telephones.

READ ALSO: Vice President tests Positive for Coronavirus

“People could catch COVID-19 by touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. If they are standing within 1 or 2 meters of a person with COVID-19 they can catch it by breathing in droplets coughed out or exhaled by them.

In other words, COVID-19 spreads in a similar way to flu. Most persons infected with COVID-19 experience mild symptoms and recover. However, some go on to experience more serious illness and may require hospital care.

Risk of serious illness rises with age, people over 40 years seem to be more vulnerable. People with weakened immune systems and people with conditions such as diabetes, heart and lung disease are also more vulnerable to serious illness.”