Is there an adequate alternative for commercially manufactured face masks? A comparison of various materials and forms

Source avec lien : Journal of Hospital Infection, 106(2), 8/5/2020. 10.1016/j.jhin.2020.07.024

Contexte Il y a une pénurie mondiale de masques de qualité médicale. Le port de masques peut jouer un rôle important pour freiner la propagation du SRAS-CoV-2. Objectif Pour conclure, s’il existe un masque efficace que la population peut porter en public et qui pourrait facilement être fabriqué pendant une pénurie de masques médicaux en utilisant des matériaux facilement disponibles. Méthodes Nous avons déterminé l’efficacité des matériaux et des modèles facilement disponibles pour la fabrication d’un masque facial. Les résultats ont été comparés aux masques N95/FFP2/KN95 qui sont entrés aux Pays-Bas en avril-mai 2020. Les masques ont été testés pour voir s’ils filtrent un minimum de 35 % des particules 0.3ɥm, s’ils sont hydrophobes, s’ils sont étanches au visage, s’ils sont respirants et s’ils peuvent être lavés.

Background There is a worldwide shortage of medical grade face masks. Donning masks can play an important role in curbing the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Aim To conclude if there is an effective mask for the population to wear in public that could easily be made during a medical face mask shortage using readily available materials. Methods We determined the effectiveness of readily available materials and models for making a face mask. The outcomes were compared with N95/FFP2/KN95 masks that entered the Netherlands in April-May 2020. Masks were tested to see if they filter a minimum of 35% of 0.3ɥm particles, are hydrophobic, seal on the face, are breathable, and can be washed. Findings Fourteen of the 25 (combinations of) materials filtered at least 35% of 0.3ɥm particles. Four of the materials proved hydrophobic, all commercially manufactured filters. Two models sealed the face. Twenty-two of the 25 materials were breathable at <0.7 mbar. None of the hydrophobic materials stayed intact after washing. Conclusions It would be possible to reduce the reproduction rate of SARS CoV-2 from 2.4 to below one if 39% of the population would wear a mask made from ePM₁ 85% commercially manufactured filter fabric and in a duckbill form. This mask performs better than 80% of the imported N95/FFP2/KN95 masks and provides a better fit than a surgical mask. Two layers of quilt fabric with a household paper towel as filter is also a viable choice for protecting the user and the environment. Lisez l’article

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