FFP2 masks lose effectiveness every time you put them on because of this problem, a Spanish scientist says
Masks are the first barrier of protection against the coronavirus. However, they are not all the same and some are more effective than others.
This is the case of FFP2 type masks, which have a higher filtering efficiency than surgical masks. In fact, Health is studying whether to impose the mandatory use of these masks in enclosed spaces.
FFP2 masks are the most recommended against coronavirus, as they protect others if you are infected and also prevent you from contracting the virus if used correctly. However, not knowing how to put them on properly can lead to some problems.
The latter is what the world expert on aerosol transmission José Luis Jiménez, a Spanish scientist who works as a professor at the University of Colorado (United States), warns against. Through a thread on his Twitter account, he has explained the dangers of not fitting the FFP2 mask correctly to the face:
14/ The ADJUSTMENT is a very big problem for the use of masks for the general populationBy holes that seem small to us passes half of unfiltered air. In this video (U Delft) three masks are seen, the N95 and surgical are poorly adjusted and have many leaks pic.twitter.com/UmgpFkybAd-
Jose-Luis Jimenez (@jljcolorado) February 1, 2021
"Through gaps that seem small to us, half of the air passes unfiltered," warns the expert, referring to the fact that aerosols can spread through the environment if the FFP2 is not properly placed. This could lead to new infections even when wearing the mask.
Jiménez explains that a 2% gap is enough for 50% of the unfiltered air to escape. And this does not only occur with FFP2 masks, but can occur with any type of mask.
Fernando Simón points out which masks are the best for self-protection from COVID-19.
In his Twitter thread, the expert asks the population to look for the best possible fit when putting on the mask: "You have to work quite hard and adjust the nose portion very well so that it's really sealed." He also comments that intensive education campaigns are needed to teach people how to put the mask on properly.
"If they are worn badly, because of their shape, they can create more of a gap than good fabric masks, and in the end they work worse," says Jiménez, referring to FFP2 masks and their design, which, despite being safer, presents difficulties for a correct fit.
Finally, the Spanish scientist asks that in the future masks that are just as effective but easier to fit be manufactured and distributed free of charge among the population: "It would have a much lower cost than lockdowns, health expenses, closing bars and restaurants, general damage to the economy, etc."
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