Coronavirus is a global epidemic that currently has no cure. Some people have resorted to covering their face with a mask when out and about, but is it worthwhile? An expert reveals all.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention gives the low-down on the use of face masks.

And the public health body explains exactly when it’s best to wear one.

Although the CDC recognises how “crucial” face masks are for health workers, or those “taking care of someone at home”, it doesn’t recommend people wear a face mask to protect themselves from coronavirus.

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However, for those showing symptoms of coronavirus, the CDC advises: “Face masks should be used by people who show symptoms of 2019 novel coronavirus, in order to protect others from the risk of getting infected.”

There are three main symptoms that appear when infected with coronavirus.

Very similar to the common cold, a fever (a temperature of 38 degrees and over) is one indication you may have it.

Another warning sign is a cough, as well as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

Symptoms can surface between two to 14 days after exposure to coronavirus.

And the severity of symptoms may range from mild to severe.

The CDC has other preventative measures to help minimise the risk of infection.

Firstly, it recommends avoiding “close contact with people who are sick”.

Secondly, it adds: “Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.”

For those feeling under the weather, the CDC recommend you to stay at home until you’re feeling better.

And it says: “Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.”

The public health body recommends cleaning and disinfecting touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

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To help prevent the spread of coronavirus, and any other virus, the CDC states: “Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.”

It advises people to do this after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing and sneezing.

If soap and water aren’t readily available, it’s a good idea to have an alcohol-based hand sanitiser nearby.

The CDC advocates for the hand sanitiser to be at least 60 percent alcohol.

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) was first identified in Wuhan City, China.

Since then, the virus has spread across the world, infecting 24 countries.

Japan, Thailand, America, France, Germany and the UK have all had to deal with the virus.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the outbreak as a public health emergency.

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