During a flu epidemic, or any other virus such as Covid-19, surgical masks are essential for your protection, and for the protection of others. Here are the different masks you can find and their functionality.
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The anti-projection surgical mask.
It is intended for the protection of others and the environment. Indeed, it prevents the projection of airborne secretions, saliva droplets, or fine particles less than 5 microns.
It is therefore intended to be worn by a contagious person from the first symptoms to protect those around them.
With a lifespan of approximately 4 hours, it is recommended to dispose of it as soon as it is wet or soiled. It is best to dispose of it in a bin provided for this purpose, or in a household waste bin, but the surgical mask should be enclosed in a plastic bag.
The FFP2 / KN95 surgical mask.
This mask is intended to protect the wearer from the risk of airborne contagion, as well as from droplets that can transmit a virus.
It is therefore recommended to wear it to avoid contamination in an environment likely to be infested. This is the opposite of anti-projection surgical masks. The FFP2/KN95 mask has a lifespan of approximately 8 hours.
The reusable fabric mask.
This must comply with AFNOR standards, which dictate the standards to be observed by companies or anyone wanting to create fabric masks.
Depending on the manufacturing and fabric, they are washable at least 10 times. We advise you not to wash them with bleach, but in a washing machine at 60°.
You can make your mask, but by respecting AFNOR standards.
This mask is not a medical mask and cannot replace it. But it will still limit the spread of viruses if barrier gestures are respected.
Tips for proper mask use.
For the mask to work properly, it is recommended to wash your hands or apply hand sanitizer before touching it. You should only touch the elastic bands. For anti-projection surgical masks, make sure not to wear it the wrong way around; generally, the colored side goes on the outside.
The mask must cover the nose and mouth and extend to the chin. For masks with a metal strip at the nose, press firmly on the nose to seal the mask and prevent filtered air from escaping.
Once in place, the mask must not be touched with your hands. To remove it, take it by the elastic bands. But if you accidentally touch it, it's best to change it.
Good practices for mask use
