Eksote informs: the distribution of face masks to the needy will begin on August 28

South Karelia social and health district (Eksote) starts distributing face masks to the needyeperustntaina August 28. Eksote primarily distributes four fabric face masks per person.

The masks are accompanied by instructions for the correct use and washing of the face mask. The biggest oof the fabric masks distributed are reusable fabric masks that have been used by employees in Eksoten's units. After use, the fabric masks have been industrially washed and stored properly in the warehouse.    

Eksote has started packing face masks and instructions for use in bags this week. The distribution of masks to the needy will be delayed until next week, because the manual bagging work takes time.

Reusable fabric masks are wrinkled after washing and storage, but they should still be washed and ironed before use. Eksoten care director Taina Jaako says that a reusable fabric mask is better suited for short-term use than for professional use, such as traveling by bus or shopping:

─ The nurse wears a face mask throughout his working day, which is why disposable face masks are more suitable for professional use. Our employees first used fabric masks because there were not enough disposable ones. Good condition, reusable fabric masks were not used at that point, when we got enough surgical masks that are better suited for care work in home care and housing units.

In Imatra, distribution starts in Iso-avu, Aikuinen kekkus and Honkaharju

The national recommendation is that citizens purchase face masks themselves. The distribution of face masks to the needy will begin at the following Eksote locations on Friday, August 28:

• Iso apu service centers: Esterinkatu 10, Imatra and Kauppakatu 63, Lappeenranta
• Centers for adults: Tainionkoskentie 1 (2nd floor), Imatra and Valtakatu 51, 3rd floor, Lappeenranta
• Health and wellness stations: Honkaharju, Armila, Joutseno, Lauritsala, Lemi, Luumäki, Parikkala, Rautjärvi, Ruokolahti, Sammonlahti, Savitaipale and Taipalsaari

 Eksote will inform the exact delivery times even closer to the date.

The recommendation for the use of a face mask in public transport by THL is valid in South Karelia, as two coronavirus infections have been detected in the South Karelia region in the past two weeks, the latest of which was on August 14.8. The use of a face mask is recommended for people over the age of 15 in public transport, when applying for a corona test and when traveling from a high-risk country to Finlandwhen entering. The face mask can still be used in other situations as well, if keeping safety distances is impossible.

 Instructions for use of the face mask:
How to use a face mask correctly, video (THL)
Recommendation for the use of face masks for citizens (THL)

 A face mask is one way to prevent the spread of coronavirus infections. It is still of primary importance to follow safety distances of 1-2 meters whenever possible, wash your hands, cough into your sleeve or a disposable handkerchief and avoid touching your face. If it is not possible to keep a safety distance, such as in public transport, then the use of a face mask is recommended.

More information for the media:

Taina Jaako, head of care, Eksote, tel. 040 828 3186

Kristiina Kapulainen, security and preparedness manager, Eksote, tel. 040 651 1791