American scientists have determined how effective different types of masks are in protecting against coronavirus. Writes about this edition Eurekalert.
As a result of the study, it turned out that different types of masks are fundamentally different from each other in terms of their effectiveness. So, the greatest protection is provided by N95 respirators (98 percent), as well as medical products – procedural masks, depending on the type of fixation, provide from 38.5 to 80 percent of protection. Additional protection is provided by a nylon stocking pulled over the mask (80 percent) and fastening with rubber bands (78 percent). Even greater efficiency can be achieved by pressing the mask to the face as much as possible and fastening the ear loops. Surgical masks with ties show a good result in 71.4 percent protection.
Among the household masks, the most effective were two-layer nylon masks. Depending on the presence of the nonwoven insert, they provide 74 to 79 percent protection. A more modest result was shown by cotton bandanas – 49-50 percent, polyester masks – almost 40 percent, balaclavas from the same material – 38 percent. The lowest results were for masks made of non-woven polypropylene – 28.6 percent, and three-layer cotton – only 26.5 percent.
Earlier, Elena Belova, an infectious disease specialist of the scientific and clinical department of the Moscow City Center for the Prevention and Control of AIDS of the Moscow Department of Health, warned Russians about the dangers of wearing a mask for several days in a row. According to her, now people buy one reusable mask and wear it for several days or weeks. However, it is more correct to use disposable masks for health. The specialist explained that the mask turns into a “wet compress” if a person wears it for several days in a row.
