Does mask protect you from the coronavirus? Learn more about face mask and how to stay safe in this pandemic.
A new study revealed the best face mask for you and examines the evidence on whether we should still be wiping down home deliveries.
The study reviewed the evidence on mask wearing found in favour of widespread mask use by infected people.
It concluded that the available evidence suggests that near-universal adoption of any face covering at all, in combination with complementary public health measures, could successfully reduce the community spread of COVID.
Models suggest that public mask wearing is most effective at reducing the spread of the virus when compliance is high.
At the start of the pandemic, there was a worldwide shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE). Governments advised the general public not to buy N95 or FFP2 masks. So that they would remain available for front-line staff.
N95 respirators, named for their ability to filter 95 percent or more of tiny 0.3-micrometre (μm) particles, are the mainstay of protection against airborne bacteria and viruses.
The European equivalent FFP2 mask, which filters about 94 percent of aerosol particles, is also very effective.
But now, with the knowledge that the virus is mainly transmitted through tiny aerosol particles that can linger in the air for hours, is it time for governments and health authorities to update their advice?
The short answer is: Yes. If you are able to access N95 or FFP2 masks, you should wear one. But any face covering at all is better than none.
