Medical professionals encouraging people to continue wearing masks even though it's hot

Medical professionals are reminding people to continue wearing a mask outside even though it's hot.

Especially if you have an underlying respiratory illness.

A lung & disease doctor from franciscan health.

He joins us live to tell us why that doctor says people have to mask up in this heat to keep themselves and other safe during this pandemic.

To help slow the spread and protect others medical professionals are strongly encouraging you to continue wearing your mask.

35-5 we know it's great time to be outdoors enjoying the weather, but local medical professionals are reminding you to mask up.

"it can be very difficult to wear a mask and go outside in hot weather, 100% agree with you particularly someone who has underlying lung disease."

Dr. shahid ahsan is the director for the intensive care unit specializing in lung & disease at franciscan health lafayette east.

He says while many people want to take their masks off when it's hot, during this time that's not the best idea.

"if someone has underlying diabetes, heart disease and lung disease even kidney disease or there are medications god forbid to treat cancers or sometimes rheumatoid arthritis, their immune is suppressed this can be life threatening."

Dr. ahsan says that's why it's especially important that people wear their masks.

He recommends keeping an extra mask when going out in the heat.

He also recommends wearing a cotton mask which is much more comfortable and breathable.

"things that have nylon are more warmer, you know, so the cotton masks are really great.

Whenever you go home you can wash them off and use them again."

He says he's witnessed people not wearing masks outside.

But he's also experienced what could happen if everyone isn't making an effort.

"my own sister died about two months ago from covid-19.

She was a pharmacist.

She wore a mask.

But the patients walking in who had possibly no symptoms gave the infection to her and so it is serious."

It's not just up to people with underlying conditions to protect themselves, during this time it's crucial that everyone makes an effort.

"if both persons are wearing the mask and maintaining a distance of six feet their likely hood of inquiring an infection would be extremely low."

I'll have links and resources from the cdc attached to this story on our website at wlfi dot com for more information.

Live from home, marvin bills news 18.

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