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Many people mistakenly think that they will be protected from the swine flu virus by wearing a protective face mask. However, the masks are actually much more effective if they are worn by those who have already contracted the virus. In any case, if one wishes to wear a mask it is imperative to follow the instructions for use and in particular the maximum time limit before the mask must be changed.
The virus A(H1N1) is spread by:
• Coughing, sneezing and spluttering,
• Direct contact, especially hand contact
• Direct contact with contaminated objects
Those who are confirmed with the illness can and should avoid spreading the virus to others by taking the following precautions:
• Wear a fluid resistant surgical mask to retain saliva and projections whilst coughing and sneezing.
Features of Surgical Mask:
• Paper or polypropene mask secured by two elastic ties
• Cost: from £1.25 per mask and £3.50 per pack of 50
• Maximum usage time: 4 hours or less depending on humidity inside.
• Wash hands regularly with an antiseptic soap or clean them with an antiseptic hand gel,
• Wash easily contaminated objects like door handles with a multi purpose cleaner,
• Throw away used tissues, masks and wipes in a drawstring bin bag which can be tightly sealed.
Healthy people who want to avoid being infected should:
• Avoid direct contact with those confirmed with the virus
• Disinfect hands to avoid indirect contamination through objects touched by those with the virus.
Health workers who have contact with those infected should take extra precautions by:
• Wearing a tighter disposable respiratory mask which is a more effective filtering facepiece than a surgical mask
Features of appropriate respiratory masks:
• Polypropylene mask with or without respiratory valve, the latter allowing
for easier breathing
• Filtration level FFP2 (98% plus)
• Cost: from £0.50 to £2.00 per piece depending on the desired quantity
• Maximum usage time: 8 hours.
Twenga recommends:
• Following the daily advice given by the NHS (National Health Service) or Nation Pandemic Flu Service concerning the progression of the virus A/H1N1.
• Following worldwide updates given by the world health organisation (also known as WHO)
• Contacting your your GP for further information. Medical guidance should be sought when making decisions regarding the use of personal protective equipment.
