MYTH: Blue facemasks are contaminated with the new coronavirus

Face masks purchased in sealed packaging are not contaminated with the virus – and the colour of a mask is not an indication of its safety. Face masks can become contaminated if they come into contact with someone who has the virus and if virus particles from that person’s body land on the facemask. Then it is possible that the virus could survive for a few days on the facemask. Masks should be worn to protect other people from your germs, for example when you have to leave your home for an essential purpose such as grocery shopping.