Covid-19 Lockdown: Day 33

Joburg is freezing.

I went to work yesterday, dressed like I normally would in the dead of winter, with a massive coat, boots and a woolen dress. My voice is also going away a little bit. I suspect it’s because my vocal chords have gone on holiday, to Siberia. I barely speak to people on my off days and without me shopping as regularly as I used to, or going to the gym, running or visiting friends I get why I sound a bit hoarse. Or could it be the mask?

Whatever it is I went to buy some groceries yesterday and as I shopped I couldn’t help observing all the bright and beautiful masks out there. I have a floral one and two black ones. My collection is growing and it’s the latest fashion obsession of mine. I find it tough to breathe in masks though and I’ve noticed every time I wear them for long periods, especially at work, I get these monstrous headaches. Is that happening to you?

My sister-in-law Nutan messaged me a whole range of masks for kiddies that come in adult sizes too. A company called Print Studio in Pretoria is selling them and can deliver masks to your door. Check them out on Facebook @printstudioyolla

Alternatively, masks are also being sold in store at Jackson’s Real Food Market in Joburg. They’re marketing double lined and triple lined masks.

Below is the recommended guidelines on how to use your mask from the National Institute For Communicable Diseases website;

• Face masks should never be touched when wearing them – fidgeting with the mask repeatedly is strongly discouraged as it is important to avoid touching your face with hands;

• Do not lower the face mask when speaking, coughing, or sneezing;

• The inner side of the face mask should not be touched with hands;

• Face masks should cover your nose and mouth entirely; and

• Wash fabric face masks with soap and water and iron when dry.