This course provides an overview of the guidance on masks as outlined in “Mask use in the context of COVID-19”.
This training is intended for health workers, decision-makers, and the public and covers correct mask use for both healthcare and community settings.
These materials were launched on 03/03/2021. As the scientific evidence and technical guidance regarding COVID-19 are constantly evolving, please refer to https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 for the latest updates.
Photo credit: WHO / Blink Media - E.Jabi; WHO/ Blink Media - M. Aim
Language: English
COVID-19
Course information
This course is also available in the following languages:
македонски - Shqip - chiShona
Overview: The use of masks is part of a comprehensive package of prevention and control measures to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. This training is based on scientific evidence and WHO guidance relevant to the use of masks for reducing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in different settings. This course targets decision-makers, IPC professionals, healthcare workers, and the general public.
This course is based on WHO guidelines and will be revised as new evidence emerges.
Learning objectives: By the end of this course, you should be able to:
- Describe the principles for safe handling and wearing of masks;
- Describe the recommendations for mask use in health settings;
- Describe the recommendations for mask use in community settings; and
- Describe the recommended fabric masks, including the number of layers and composition.
Course duration: Approximately 1 hour.
Certificates: A Record of Achievement certificate will be available to participants who score at least 80% of the total points available across all of the quizzes. Participants who receive a Record of Achievement can also download an Open Badge for this course. Click here to learn how.
Useful links and resources:
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: When and how to use masks
Course contents
Module 1: Introduction:
By the end of this module, you should be able to: describe how COVID-19 is spread; explain the 5 recommended measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19; understand what is included in the mask guidance, and describe how to use masks, what type of masks to use and when to use them.Module 2: Healthcare settings:
By the end of this module, you should be able to: describe what mask use is recommended for the care of COVID-19 patients; understand what mask use is recommended for each of the transmission scenarios; explain the mask needs for community health workers, and describe the difference between the terms "universal masking" versus "targeted masking".Module 3: Community settings:
By the end of this module, you should be able to: describe when to wear a mask in community settings; explain what mask is recommended for specific sub-populations in the community, and understand whether a mask is recommended for specific activities in community settings.
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Certificate Requirements
- Gain a Record of Achievement by earning at least 80% of the maximum number of points from all graded assignments.
- Gain an Open Badge by completing the course.