When we think of a contagious disease or a virus, it usually comes to our mind the use of a mask, also known as a mask or surgical mask, but does it really work?
In recent days, its use has become more evident after the well-known and worrisome Wuhan coronavirus emerged in China, which has affected more than a thousand people and caused more than 100 deaths.
Another use of masks is to prevent infections in many countries of the world, especially in Asia, where it is also used to protect against high levels of contamination.
However, virologists are skeptical about their effectiveness against viruses found in the air. This, although there is some evidence that suggests that they can help prevent word of mouth transmission.
Where does the idea of using it come from?
It was first introduced to hospitals at the end of the 18th century, but they did not become public use until the outbreak of the Spanish flu that occurred in 1919, which killed more than 50 million people.
"Surgical masks for the public are not effective protection against airborne viruses or bacteria," David Carrington , a doctor at the St. George's hospital in London, told the BBC.
The expert explained that this is because they are objects too "loose, without air filters and that leaves the eyes exposed."
However, he admitted that they could help reduce the risk of contracting a virus through the splattering of a sneeze or a cough, and provide some protection against mouth-to-mouth infection.
It can be as good as a respirator
Jonathan Ball , professor of molecular virology at the University of Nottingham, said that, in a hospital, and within a well-controlled treatment, "it can be as good for preventing an infection as a custom-made respirator."
A respirator has a specialized air filter, and is specifically designed to protect a person against potentially dangerous particles in the air.
"However, when you see the studies that analyze their effectiveness in the general population, the data is less convincing: it is a challenge to keep a mask for prolonged periods of time," he added.
Implementing hygiene measures helps its effectiveness
Connor Bambord , of the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute of Experimental Medicine, states that "implementing simple hygiene measures [has been] much more effective."
"Covering your mouth when you sneeze, washing your hands and not putting your hands in your mouth before washing could help limit the risk of contracting any respiratory virus," he added.
While the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends to prevent infection, avoid close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections.
In addition, it indicates that it is essential to wash your hands frequently, especially after direct contact with sick people, and avoid unprotected contact with farm or wild animals.
On the other hand, Jake Dunning , head of emerging public health infections in England, told the portal that, “although there is a perception that the use of masks may be beneficial, there is very little evidence of a widespread benefit from their use outside of the clinical environment ”.
The specialist also suggests that, in order for them to function properly, they must be changed frequently and safely removed.
"Its effectiveness is reduced over time when used for prolonged periods," he concluded.
Therefore, for the expert it would be better for people to focus on maintaining good personal hygiene and perfectly washed hands.
See also:
Coronavirus: symptoms, risks and how this dangerous epidemic is contracted
How to avoid a contagion at home, as happened to Jessica Simpson's family
Alert! Flu-like virus could kill 80 million people, according to WHO
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