Swine Flu Face Masks
Are face masks any good against swine flu?
It is not as effective as some people like to think. Masks only work well if they are changed regularly. Otherwise they dampen quickly from breathing and become perfect nets for capturing viruses.
Masks should only be worn by health care professionals or those looking after people suspected of having swine flu.
Types of masks
The more common surgical masks are not designed to prevent virus inhalation. They are used to prevent germs from passing from doctor to patient.
Most people need to be trained to wear masks that can filter out virus particles.
There are two types of masks that conform to the European standard that can provide protection against viruses; these are the FFP3 and the U.S equivalent N95.
About N95 and FFP3 respirator masks
The CDC recommends N95 or FFP3 (which is the European model) masks to prevent the spread of swine flu. These masks are more complicated than simple surgical masks that are casually wrapped around the nose and mouth. They include adjustable noseclips to provide a comfortable and perfect fit to ensure that no virus slips through any gaps. They are highly efficient against extremely small airborne particles including viruses.
They are bit heavy duty but they lightweight and provide maintenance-free protection against swine flu. However, for them to work properly they have to be worn correctly and they have to be changed regularly. These make them an expensive preventative measure against swine flu.
Masks should only be used when absolutely necessary. They cannot provide complete protection against swine flu... nothing can. Masks can only provide short-term protection against the disease and this is only if they are used properly. Measures like good hygiene practices and avoiding large crowds are sufficient basic measures that can help against catching the disease.