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