How important is it to wear face masks?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the chances of the virus transmitting to others are high even if the person shows no signs and symptoms of COVID-19. Therefore, wearing masks has proven to be an effective way to control the spread of the virus. Although face masks may or may not meet any fluid barrier or filtration efficiency levels, it is still important that the face should be covered, especially the nose and the mouth.
Among all the types of face masks and protection available in the market, cloth masks are a mild protective gear in terms of fluid barriers, whereas the N95 respirator provides higher respiratory protection to the wearer than cloth masks. Hence, even with the limited evidence supporting the effectiveness of the cloth masks, these items provide significant protection from germs, fluid exchange, and even the virus. Therefore, the CDC and WHO share a unanimous opinion that the widespread use of face masks might help to slow the spread of Covid-19.
What are different types of masks and their effectiveness?
Medical masks, also known as surgical masks are loose-fitting disposable face protection. Originally designed to protect the wearer from the contact of germs and droplets, a medical mask should only be worn for a short period of time as they are loose in form-fitting and may not provide long-term protection or in highly contagious environments.
Cloth Masks. These masks are intended to trap respiratory droplets when the wearer talks, coughs or sneezes. Therefore, it is only effective if made of multiple layers and a tightly woven fabric such as cotton. Cloth masks are safe to be worn by healthy and fully vaccinated individuals in non-congested environments.
N95 Respirators. These offer the highest form of protection than medical and cloth masks and covers the contours of the face, Its full-coverage filters out both large and small particles as the wearer inhales. Initially, these masks were in short supply, so the CDC recommended that these should be reserved for healthcare professionals only. However, now that these masks are abundant in supply, they are advised to be worn by people showing mild symptoms of flu or COVID-19.
Evidently, there are a number of benefits that face mask protection can provide to the wearer and to those around them. Hence, it’s essential to practice proper care in wearing and removing face masks to ensure proper protection.
Elite Medical Accessories offers industry-grade face protection accessories in the form of surgical masks, 3 ply masks for children, and N95 respirators. Visit our website or reach out to our team to buy the highest-quality face protection accessories for your medical facility.
