Do N95 Masks Protect Against the H1N1 Virus?
Who Should be Wearing N95 Respirators to Prevent the Swine Flu?
Sep 19, 2009
The CDC has, in the absence of solid evidence regarding the amount of protection afforded by the N95 respirators, pointed out that use of the N95 respirators are only to be considered one among the many preventive measures available against the Novel H1N1 infection.
What is the Difference Between a Mask and a Respirator?
Common masks worn by surgeons are not airtight and do not protect against germs like viruses. Respirators, on the other hand, are airtight and the pores are very minute so as not to allow the minute particulates carrying viruses on them.
What is N95 Respirator?
N95 is the most common CDC approved disposable respirator available to protect against infectious agents like the nH1N1 (Novel H1N1). N means that the respirator can be used when there is no oil in the fumes or atmosphere around the person wearing it. The 95 in N95 denotes that the NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) has certified that the respirator provides 95% protection against inhaled aerosols (which may contain viruses and other germs).
There are two types of N95 respirators available for use- the surgical mask type and the hard molded N95 respirators.
Do N95 Masks/Respirators Protect Against the Novel H1N1 Virus?
When correctly and constantly worn, N95 respirators are thought to provide 95% protection against H1N1 virus carrying aerosols in the atmosphere. But the protection provided by the N95 respirators is not foolproof; and has to be carried out along with other preventive measures against the Swine Flu virus, like observing hand and personal hygiene, avoiding crowded places and keeping a distance of at least 6 feet from a proven case of swine flu.
Who Should be Wearing the N95 Masks/Respirators to Protect Against Swine Flu?
- According to the CDC, the absolute indication for wearing the N95 respirators is by the healthcare professionals who care for known or suspected cases of the nH1N1 flu.
- High risk group individuals, like the pregnant women, children below the age of 5 years and those suffering from chronic debilitating diseases and immune lowering conditions should avoid crowded place and caring for known or suspected cases of swine flu. If unavoidable, they may wear the N95 respirators.
- The CDC does not recommend normal healthy individuals without any of the above risk factors wear N95 respirators even when they come in contact with known or suspected cases of swine flu. They should keep a distance of minimum 6 feet and observe the hand hygiene and a ‘No Hand to Face’ policy at all times.
When Should the N95 Respirators be Worn?
See the previous question for the answer to the question when N95 respirators should be worn.
Does the Surgical Face Mask Protect Against H1N1 Flu Virus?
The surgical face mask does not stop the aerosols containing the H1N1 viruses; hence cannot be relied upon to protect against the swine flu infection. CDC has recommended the use of face masks at home and in community settings when people belonging to the risk group come in contact with proven or suspected cases of H1N1 flu. Though these do not guarantee protection, they are still better than not wearing any masks at all.
Related Articles
- When to Wear the N95 Masks to Prevent H1N1 Flu?
- Guidelines on Proper Use of N95 Respirators to Prevent H1N1 Flu.
- FAQ on the Uses and Limitations of the N95 Respirators and Masks in H1N1 Flu.
Reference
Disclaimer
The information given in this article is for educational purpose only so that patients are aware of the options available. No diagnosis should be made or treatment undertaken without first consulting your doctor. If you do so, the author or suite101 will not be responsible for any consequences. The images provided are for illustration purpose only.
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