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.

After our article on the surge in demand for face masks following the spread of the A (H1N1) virus, please find some clarifications on the types of masks featured.
• Surgical masks, or anti-projection masks, are primarily worn by those infected for the protection of others. They prevent all contaminated saliva projections but do not necessarily prevent the person wearing them from becoming infected. Only some of these masks meet the FFP2 protection standards.

• The type of mask advised to be worn in order to avoid becoming infected is the respiratory mask. However, these masks are often more restricting.
In both cases, the most important thing to think about when choosing your protection is the FFP level. There are 3 levels of FFP protection distinguished by a colour code.
• FFP1 green
• FFP2 yellow
• FFP3 red

Most popular types of mask on Twenga :
The FFP2 mask:
Very comfortable
Avoid pressure points
Complies with European standards and guidelines
Duration of use: 8.00 hours per mask
Price: £5.50

The Vitrex mask:
Reduces fatigue
Hypoallergenic, latex-free, silicone or PVC
Available in 3 levels of protection: FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3
Price: between £17 and £23 (depending on the level of protection)

It is also highly recommended to use an antiseptic hand gel to wash and disinfect hands. Convenient and easy to carry, it can be used without water or towel. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties make it very effective against viruses.
Regular price on Twenga: £6
Bargain price: £2 €