When the United States experienced an outbreak of the swine flu in 2009, everyone was talking about methods to reduce the spread of the virus.
In keeping with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source, vaccine availability was restricted that year because the virus wasn’t recognized until manufacturers had already started producing the annual vaccine.
So, individuals began doing something most of us hadn’t really seen earlier than to stop transmission: wearing surgical face masks.
But with the current spread of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, people are again seeking to surgical face masks as a way of protecting themselves and others from the virus, which causes the illness COVID-19.
But does wearing a face mask really prevent the spread of viruses, such because the flu or SARS-CoV-2?
We’ll look at recommendations from consultants, unpack the research on which masks are handiest, and explain how you can use masks properly.
Within the case of the novel coronavirus and COVID-19, the CDCTrusted Source notes that:
“CDC doesn’t suggest that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. You need to only wear a mask if a healthcare professional recommends it. A facemask ought to be utilized by people who have COVID-19 and are showing symptoms.”
The CDCTrusted Source recommends healthcare workers wear face masks when working with patients who have the flu.
The CDC also recommendsTrusted Supply sufferers who show signs of respiratory infections be given masks while they’re in healthcare settings until they can be isolated.
For those who’re sick and should be round others, properly wearing a mask can protect those round you from contracting your illness.
Studies show masks might assist in some cases
For many years, scientists weren’t certain whether or not wearing a masks was effective at stopping the spread of viruses. Nonetheless, recent research counsel they can help.
One 2013 studyTrusted Source looked at how masks may assist people with the seasonal flu restrict spreading it after they exhale small droplets containing the virus. General, researchers discovered masks led to a more than threefold reduction in how much virus folks sprayed into the air.
One other studyTrusted Source, analyzing data from thousands of Japanese schoolchildren, discovered that “vaccination and wearing a mask reduced the likelihood of growing seasonal influenza.”
Importantly, researchers additionally foundTrusted Source that flu rates had been decrease when masks were paired with proper hand hygiene.
In other words, regular handwashing remains an essential device in preventing the spread of viruses.
Totally different types of masks
If you’re considering wearing a mask to protect yourself towards infections, there are types you should know about.
Surgical face masks
Surgical face masks are pretty loose-fitting, disposable masks approved by the Food and Drug Administration to be used as medical devices. Doctors, dentists, and nurses typically wear them while treating patients.
These masks stop large droplets of bodily fluids which will contain viruses or other germs from escaping via the nose and mouth. In addition they protect against splashes and sprays from other people, similar to these from sneezes and coughs.
But the common masks you should purchase from a neighborhood drugstore aren’t enough to filter out viruses.
For that goal, experts suggest special masks with fine mesh that can seize very small organisms. These additionally should be worn correctly for them to work.
Masks worn over the face are additionally unable to protect you from getting airborne virus particles, from a cough or sneeze, into your eyes.
Buy surgical face masks from Amazon or Walmart.
Respirators
Respirators, also called N95 respirator masks, are designed to protect the wearer from small particles in the air, like viruses. They’re certified by the CDC and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
The name comes from the fact that they can filter 95 p.cTrusted Source of airborne particles, according to the CDC. N95 masks are additionally usually used when painting or dealing with potentially poisonous materials.
Respirators are chosen to fit your face. They need to type an ideal seal so no gaps allow airborne viruses in. Healthcare workers use them to protect towards airborne infectious diseases, resembling tuberculosis and anthrax.
In contrast to common face masks, respirators protect towards each giant and small particles.
General, respirators are considered much more efficient at preventing the flu virus than common face masks.
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