Across the globe, over 13 million COVID-19 cases have already been reported. And while Australia is considered to be on the better-performing side of the spectrum when it comes to containing the infectious disease, this is still no time to be complacent. Staying home, wearing protective gear like a face shield, and following safety protocols should still be strictly followed given that over the past month, the country has seen a resurgence in the number of COVID-inflicted individuals.

Since the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Australia late in January of this year, the virus has claimed over 100 lives in the country. One of the simplest ways to help contain the disease is by wearing proper face protection. While the majority of the world population relies on the relatively more economical face masks, its effectiveness in filtering COVID-containing droplets is still an issue among medical experts. During the past months, scientists have claimed that a face shield offers better protection.

Why it’s better

According to an April 29 report by the Journal of the American Medical Association, a group of researchers noted that a face shield “may provide a better option” compared with a cloth mask that “provides [only] some filtration of virus-sized aerosol particles.”

While the regular surgical mask only covers the mouth and nose area of its wearer, the shield is designed to cover the eyes as well. For it to be fully protective, the user must ensure that his or her shield extends below the chin and covers the ears and that there’s no gap between this protective equipment’s headpiece and his or her forehead. This comprehensive protection shields the wearer’s entire face from respiratory droplets that may enter one’s nasal cavity, mouth, and eyes.

Compared to a disposable face mask, this shield also prevents users from touching their face after touching a possibly infected object. This offers a significant benefit as hand-to-mouth transmissions are also considered as a common cause of contracting COVID-19.

Other benefits

The rise of demand for face shields in Australia is backed by strong reasons other than health-related ones. These include their durability and cost-effectiveness in the long run. These products are made of long-lasting plastic sheets that can be easily sterilized after every use.

They are also easier and more comfortable to wear — making them a better alternative to face masks, which can restrict airflow when worn for a long period of time.

Lastly, face shields are transparent, helping the wearer communicate more easily with other people. With such protective gear, facial expressions can be better read and conversations can better be carried out.