When the United States experienced an outbreak of the swine flu in 2009, everybody was talking about how to reduce the spread of the virus.
According to the Centers for Illness Management and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source, vaccine availability was limited that yr because the virus wasn’t identified until manufacturers had already started producing the annual vaccine.
So, people began doing something most of us hadn’t really seen before to stop transmission: wearing surgical face masks.
But with the current spread of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, individuals are again seeking to surgical face masks as a way of protecting themselves and others from the virus, which causes the disease COVID-19.
However does wearing a face masks really prevent the spread of viruses, such because the flu or SARS-CoV-2?
We’ll take a look at suggestions from experts, unpack the analysis on which masks are only, and explain learn how to use masks properly.
Within the case of the novel coronavirus and COVID-19, the CDCTrusted Supply notes that:
“CDC does not advocate that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. It’s best to only wear a mask if a healthcare professional recommends it. A facemask needs to be utilized by individuals who have COVID-19 and are showing symptoms.”
The CDCTrusted Source recommends healthcare workers wear face masks when working with patients who’ve the flu.
The CDC additionally recommendsTrusted Source patients who show signs of respiratory infections be given masks while they’re in healthcare settings till they can be isolated.
Should you’re sick and should be around others, properly wearing a mask can protect those around you from contracting your illness.
Research show masks could assist in some cases
For a few years, scientists weren’t certain whether or not wearing a mask was efficient at preventing the spread of viruses. Nevertheless, latest research recommend they’ll help.
One 2013 studyTrusted Source looked at how masks may help individuals with the seasonal flu restrict spreading it once they exhale small droplets containing the virus. Overall, researchers discovered masks led to a more than threefold reduction in how a lot virus folks sprayed into the air.
One other researchTrusted Source, analyzing data from hundreds of Japanese schoolchildren, discovered that “vaccination and wearing a mask reduced the likelihood of growing seasonal influenza.”
Importantly, researchers also discoveredTrusted Source that flu rates had been decrease when masks had been paired with proper hand hygiene.
In other words, regular handwashing remains an essential instrument in preventing the spread of viruses.
Completely different types of masks
If you happen to’re considering wearing a mask to protect yourself against infections, there are two types you must know about.
Surgical face masks
Surgical face masks are fairly loose-fitting, disposable masks approved by the Meals and Drug Administration for use as medical devices. Doctors, dentists, and nurses often wear them while treating patients.
These masks forestall massive droplets of bodily fluids that may comprise viruses or different germs from escaping by way of the nose and mouth. In addition they protect in opposition to splashes and sprays from other individuals, resembling those from sneezes and coughs.
But the common masks you can buy from an area drugstore aren’t enough to filter out viruses.
For that goal, consultants recommend special masks with fine mesh that may capture very small organisms. These additionally need to be worn appropriately 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, additionally called N95 respirator masks, are designed to protect the wearer from small particles in the air, like viruses. They’re licensed by the CDC and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.
The name comes from the truth that they’ll filter ninety five percentTrusted Supply of airborne particles, in keeping with the CDC. N95 masks are additionally often used when painting or handling potentially poisonous materials.
Respirators are chosen to fit your face. They must form an ideal seal so no gaps permit airborne viruses in. Healthcare workers use them to protect towards airborne infectious ailments, reminiscent of tuberculosis and anthrax.
Unlike regular face masks, respirators protect in opposition to both large and small particles.
General, respirators are considered much more effective at preventing the flu virus than common face masks.
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