The protective effect of medical masks is generally evaluated from five aspects: the fit between the head and face of the human body, respiratory resistance, particle filtration efficiency, adaptability to the crowd, and hygiene safety. At present, ordinary disposable medical masks sold in the market may have a certain blocking effect on dust and large particles, but their protection against haze, PM2.5, bacteria, viruses and other microbial particles is insufficient. It is recommended to choose masks labeled KN95 or N95 (with a minimum filtration efficiency of 95% for non oily particles) and FPP2 (with a minimum filtration efficiency of 94%).
Wash your hands before wearing and before removing the mask. If you must touch the mask during wear, wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching it. After each wearing of a medical mask, an air tightness check must be conducted. Cover the mask with both hands and exhale. If gas is felt to leak from the nose clip, the nose clip should be readjusted; If you feel gas leaking from both sides of the mask, you need to further adjust the position of the headband and ear strap; If good sealing cannot be achieved, the mask model needs to be changed.
Masks are not suitable for long-term wear. Firstly, the outside of the mask absorbs pollutants such as particulate matter, causing an increase in respiratory resistance; The second is that bacteria, viruses, etc. in exhaled breath will accumulate inside the mask. For disposable masks without exhalation valves, it is generally not recommended to wear them for more than 1 hour; For masks with exhalation valves, it is generally not recommended to wear them for more than one day. It is recommended that wearers change their masks in a timely manner based on the acceptable level of respiratory resistance and hygiene conditions.
In short, wearing medical masks generally increases respiratory resistance and stuffiness, and not everyone is suitable for wearing masks. Special groups should be cautious when choosing protective masks, such as pregnant women wearing protective masks. They should choose products with good comfort based on their own conditions, such as protective masks with exhalation valves, which can reduce exhalation resistance and stuffiness; Children are in the stage of growth and development, with small facial shapes. Generally, masks are difficult to achieve a tight fit. It is recommended to choose protective masks produced by reputable manufacturers that are suitable for children to wear; Elderly people, chronic disease patients, and special populations with respiratory diseases are recommended to use it under the guidance of professional physicians.
Post time: Jan-26-2025