Choosing The Right Swine Flu Mask

Making prudent choices about the type of face mask one should wear followed by its disciplined use and thorough disinfection subsequent to use are crucial steps towards lowering the chances of contracting the swine flu virus.

The N-95 masks were highly popular at the time of the Sars scare after been tested are advocated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for all pandemic situations. It is available in varying models with greater than 95% filtration efficiency and aids in reducing exposure to particles of the size greater than 0.3 microns. It is made of non- woven polypropylene fibre technology that raises the density and filtering capacity. These masks produce static electricity and also guard against other highly contagious respiratory infections like tuberculosis.

The N-95 (American name for it), P2 (the European and Australian name) and HEPA masks or respirators are to a significant extent the same thing. Though the gelatinous layered paper made surgical mask prevent entry of particles of the size of more than 4micron diameter are ideal only for the influenza virus that causes common cold and need a change every four hours or when it becomes soaked with fluid.

The correct and judicious use of the P2 or N-95s that is obtainable with most safety product providers with the brand names like 3M, Draeger and Sundstrom amongst other names is an important step towards shielding oneself from the swine flu virus. Some of the N-95 masks created for uses in hospitals are promoted as NIOSH or FDA endorsed, do similar tasks but with a different approval level.

The N-95 mask is basically a surface for entrapment of the virus from outside, so the need is to thoroughly wash the mask on a frequent basis followed by washing one’s hands is crucial.

Also available are the re-usable silicon-based masks that partially or fully cover the face known as the elastomeric masks or face pieces similar looking to the ones used during spray painting. They are as effectual as the N-95 masks only if they are connected with the purple coloured HEPA filters, though they are quite uncomfortable for use.

The PAPR also known as the powdered air respirator is a full face covering mask or hood based system fitted with HEPA or P2 filters that suck in the air through its P2 highly effectual filters and maintains a higher air-pressure within the mask in comparison to the surroundings. Considered more effective than a mask, subsequent to an exhaustive series of testing, it was the appropriate choice by the U.S. military after the anthrax scare that took place years ago. Though their use is ideally based for protection against harmful radiation and chemical assaults, they are also quite pricey.

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