Quote:
Originally Posted by wdb
Masks are really only good for preventing the wearer from spreading stuff to other people. They don't do much at all to prevent becoming infected.
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Thats true, but only of the cheap face masks you see on most photos. N95 respirators, which look similar, are designed to filter out virus particles.
Per the FDA:
https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/...respirators#s3
Quote:
N95 Respirators
An N95 respirator is a respiratory protective device designed to achieve a very close facial fit and very efficient filtration of airborne particles.
The ‘N95’ designation means that when subjected to careful testing, the respirator blocks at least 95 percent of very small (0.3 micron) test particles. If properly fitted, the filtration capabilities of N95 respirators exceed those of face masks. However, even a properly fitted N95 respirator does not completely eliminate the risk of illness or death.
N95 respirators are not designed for children or people with facial hair. Because a proper fit cannot be achieved on children and people with facial hair, the N95 respirator may not provide full protection.
N95 Respirators for Use by the Public
The FDA has cleared certain filtering facepiece respirators (N95) for use by the general public. To work as expected, an N95 respirator requires a proper fit to your face. Generally, to check for proper fit, you should put on your respirator and adjust the straps so that the respirator fits tightly but comfortably to your face. For information on proper fit, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not generally recommend facemasks and respirators for use in home or community settings. However, they may be appropriate for persons at increased risk of severe illness from influenza or other respiratory diseases. Please consult with your health care provider for more information about when to use N95 Respirators at home or in the community.
The FDA has cleared the following N95 respirators for use by the general public in public health medical emergencies:
3M™ Particulate Respirator 8670F
3M™ Particulate Respirator 8612F
Pasture Tm F550G Respirator
Pasture Tm A520G Respirator
These devices are labeled "NOT for occupational use.”
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