Wearing a mask can help to prevent virus transmission, but it can become a source of infection if not worn and disposed of properly. Here are some useful recommendations:
When to wear a mask:
When you have symptoms of COVID-19 (i.e., fever, cough, difficulty breathing, sore throat, runny nose or sneezing) and are in public where the social-distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
When you are caring for someone who has COVID-19.
Unless you have symptoms of COVID-19, there is no clear evidence that wearing a mask will protect you from the virus, however, wearing a mask may help protect others around you if you are sick.
How to wear a mask:
Wash your hands before putting on your face covering (at least 15 seconds with soap and water/alcohol-based hand sanitizer).
Secure the elastic loops of the mask around your ears. If your mask has strings, tie them securely behind your head.
Put it over your nose and mouth and secure it under your chin. Try to fit it snugly against the sides of your face and make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
Make sure you can breathe easily.
Do not touch the front of the mask while you wear it. (If you do, make sure to wash your hands again with soap and water/hand sanitizer for at least 15 seconds).
How to throw away the mask
Stretch and remove the elastic loops from your ears (Do not touch the front of the mask).
Hold only the loops or strings and place the mask in a garbage bin with a lid. If it's a cloth face covering, place it in the washing machine.
Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth when removing and wash hands immediately after removing. Finally, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 15 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Source: Public Health Ontario