New Study About Face Masks- DGHS Observed “Inappropriate Use” Of N-95 Mask

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the health agencies of the US had recommended the use of a face mask to halt the spread of novel coronavirus. Since then, it is one of the most effective equipment to go around. But like any other thing, Face masks also stand out in questions “which one is the best one”? 

While it’s understood that something is better than nothing, means some kind of protection is better than none and there has been much information on the effectiveness of each sort of mask, either it is hand made or N-95. 

A study published in scientific journal Physics of Fluids from AIP Publishing sheds new light on how the material and construction of face masks can impact its effectiveness. 

All of the major health agencies have recommended some sort of covering to the general public, but there is no clear guidance that has revealed the type of material and design of the mask should be used. 

Well, all of the above, wearing a mask is most important. If you are infected and wearing masks, you’ll be more likely to decrease the transmission of the virus. And if you’re wearing it to protect the people around you, means you’re also wearing it to protect yourself from getting infected. More and more people wearing a mask will decrease the overall transmission. 

When it comes to a specific mask, the range of masks can be varied from simply folded bandana to hand-made to N-95 respirator mask. But it still remains a question which mask is effective because, in recent reports, the Indian Government warns against the use of N-95 masks with the valved respirator. 

The Central Government has written to all state governments and all union territories warning against the use of N-95 masks with valved respirator by the public saying these masks don’t prevent the virus from spreading and are detrimental to the measures adopted for its containment. 

The Director-General of Health Services in the Ministry of Health said in a letter to the principal secretaries of Health and medical education of states, it has been observed that there is “inappropriate use” of N-95 masks, particularly with respiratory valved respiratory, by the public other than designed health workers. 

On the other hand- the DGHS Rajiv Garg advises the use of a homemade mask on the website of the Ministry of Health. 

“It brings to your knowledge that the use of N-95 masks with a valved respirator is detrimental to the measures adopted for preventing the spread of the virus as it does not prevent the virus from out from the mask. DGHS Rajiv Garg said in a letter, I request you to instruct all concerned to follow the use of face masks and prevent inappropriate use of the N-95 mask. 

In April, the Government issued an advisory on the use of handmade protective cover for face, asking people to wear it, particularly when stepping out of the home. It also included that it is better to use a cotton cloth to make this face cover and the protective equipment must be washed each day. It would be good if it is boiled for 5 minutes and dried well before use. Adding salt to water is recommended.

It is also listed the procedure of making masks, asking to ensure it fits well and there would be no gap on the sides. It is necessary to know All About The Face Masks: When & How To Use It Correctly such as wash your hands properly before applying and removing it, never share it with anyone and more.