TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI)—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," said Dr. Ahsan. 

Dr. Shahid Ahsan is the Director for the Intensive Care Unit specializing in Lung & Disease at Franciscan Health Lafayette East. He said 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," said Dr. Ahsan. 

Dr. Ahsan said 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," said Ahsan. "Whenever you go home you can wash them off and use them again."

He said 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," said Ahsan. "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," said Ahsan. 

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