Beat Coronavirus by wearing a face mask
Does it really matter which type of mask I wear?
Yes. Different types of mask offer different levels of protection. Surgical/Medical grade N99 or FFP3 respirators offer the highest level of protection against Covid-19 infection, followed by N95 or FFP2 respirators, then followed by blue surgical masks.
Should I wear a medical grade mask or a cloth mask?
There is still no evidence for cloth based masks but the US CDC and other health authorities say a cloth mask is better than no mask at all.
Purpose made Cloth Masks with a tighter fitting around the face is better than home made.
One US study investigated which household materials best removed particles of 0.3-1.0 microns in diameter, the typical size of viruses and bacteria, and concluded that good options include vacuum cleaner bags, heavyweight “quilter’s cotton” or multiple layers of material. Scarves and bandana material were less effective, but still captured a fraction of particles.
Hive Pharmacy supplies purpose made cloth face masks as well as a range of medical grade face masks.
Does wearing a mask on a plane help prevent getting sick?
You're allowed to wear a face mask in flight — and many airlines and government bodies have even made this a requirement, but which type of mask should you wear for a flight?
We would like to think all passengers would wear a mask AND wear it correctly to cover the nose and mouth, but as we know, not everyone will comply fully. Therefore, the way we see it, is that you should take control of your risk and wear the highest level of protection for that flight. This mean FFP3 or FFP2 face masks.
Of course simply wearing a mask doesn't offer you complete protection. You should still wash hands thoroughly and use sanitiser.
Comments