ID :
294073
Wed, 07/24/2013 - 10:16
Auther :
Shortlink :
https://oananews.org//node/294073
The shortlink copeid
Not All Face Masks Are The Same
By Hazlinda Hamzah
SUBANG JAYA (Selangor, Malaysia), July 24 (Bernama) -- The haze that had
enveloped Malaysia in the middle of June made people anxious about the
deteriorating air quality.
As a result, many people started covering their noses and mouths with face
masks before stepping out of their homes.
However, just how many among us know which face mask is the most suitable
one for protection against the airborne dust particles during the haze?
Many people have the misconception that any face mask can block dust
particles and prevent them from entering their noses and mouths. Therefore, some
people on the streets were even seen wearing surgical masks.
According to healthcare experts, three ply surgical masks cannot provide
complete protection from airborne dust particles.
THE FUNCTION OF A SURGICAL MASK
A surgical mask is also known as a procedure mask. Records show that the
surgical mask was first used during a surgery in Paris in 1897.
The mask used by doctors and nurses during surgeries helps prevent droplet
infection.
A surgical mask only prevents viruses or bacteria from spreading.
PROTECTION
When the intensity of haze increased in Klang Valley, a check here found
that most of the pharmacies had run out of face masks.
Conversations with some pharmacists, provided a better understanding on the
importance of knowing more about the face masks.
The N95 and N97 particulate respiratory face masks are more effective than
surgical masks during a haze.
USAGE
How long should one use a face mask before disposing it?
A staff at a pharmacy in USJ10, Taipan, said a N95 mask of medium thickness,
which costs RM5, can be used for three days, while N97, which is thicker, can
last longer.
"You can use a N97 face mask for two weeks, provided you blow dry it every
day," he said.
However, according to a young pharmacist at another outlet, who preferred to
be known as Fida, face masks should be disposed off after they are worn for a
day.
"A face mask, be it N95, N97, or the normal three ply surgical mask, can
only be used once," she said.
According to Fida, bacteria from an individual’s mouth get accumulated in
the walls of the face mask, especially on the inner side.
She said the face mask may serve as a breeding ground for the bacteria;
hence, it is unhealthy for an individual to reuse the same face mask.
She added that the N97 face mask is more comfortable than other masks.
"A pack of three N97 face masks cost RM14.50, and a N95 face mask costs RM6.
Face masks that are manufactured in China cost RM1 less," she said.
Surgical masks are the cheapest. In fact, a packet of five surgical masks
for adults costs RM4, and a packet of five surgical masks for children costs
RM5.
STORAGE
On the best possible way to store new and unused face masks, Fida replied
that face masks should be packed properly, either in their original packaging or
in plastic bags.
Fida also informed that face masks do not expire.
One should store face masks in a securely sealed package to avoid
contamination by insects.
-- BERNAMA