How Useful Masks Are?
Face masks can help stop the spread of
coronavirus, in the right circumstances.
The European Centre for Disease
Prevention and Control agrees that medical face masks should be
prioritised for healthcare workers. But it says non-surgical face masks worn by
the public might help control the spread of infection by people who are
contagious but do not yet have symptoms.
This might be particularly useful in busy, closed spaces, such
as grocery stores, shopping centres, or when using public transport, it says.
Coronavirus is spread by droplets that can spray into the air
when those infected talk, cough and sneeze. These can enter the body through
the eyes, nose and mouth, either directly or after touching a contaminated
object.
Where am I supposed to get a face mask?
Plenty of websites are selling medical face masks online, despite the
official guidance that these should be reserved for healthcare workers.
Many High Street pharmacies do not appear to have any stocks of masks.
What is the best type of mask?
In hospitals, different types of mask offer different grades of
protection.
The most protective is an FFP3 or, alternatively, an N95 or an
FFP2.
Experts do not recommend the public use these masks, which are
for healthcare workers in close contact with coronavirus patients.
Other NHS staff in lower-risk situations can
wear a surgical mask, latest guidelines say. That means healthcare workers
within one metre of a patient with possible or confirmed Covid-19, and it
includes staff working in hospitals, primary care, ambulance trusts, community
care settings and care homes.
What else can protect against coronavirus?
Gloves and other protective wear are recommended for NHS staff
working in places where they could encounter coronavirus.
Again, staff in the highest-risk scenarios are advised to wear fuller protection, rather than
a simple apron, gloves, mask and goggles.
§ Has the NHS got enough protective gear?
§ 'Enormous strain' on protective kit for NHS - Williamson
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