Can A Respirator/Mask Really Help Against Bird Flu?
Surgical masks and respirators are forms of personal protective
equipment used to guard against the spread of infectious
diseases. With the increased onset of bird flu, many
manufacturers and distributors of various protective equipment
have touted incredible results from the use of their products.
Do they hold water? Do these respirators and masks actually
protect against bird flu?
For many years, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) has recommended the use of various forms personal
protective equipment to safeguard against spreading diseases. Of
these are surgical masks. These masks are manufactured to block
the passage of tiny particles such as the influenza virus and
keep the particles from reaching the eyes, mouth, and nose of
the wearer, therefore preventing infection.
However, all masks are not developed to guard against infection.
Masks for healthcare use are regulated by the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA), which ensures certain standards and
criteria are met by all personal protective equipment.
Therefore, if a mask is FDA approved, you can be assured the
mask protects against the spread of infection. However, if a
mask is not approved by the FDA, you should consider purchasing
a different type.
Many manufactures are specifically guaranteeing bird flu
protection; it should be understood that the FDA does not test
for specific forms of disease, and therefore, companies are not
allowed to make such allegations. If similar claims are made,
you should be skeptical of the company's validity and the
quality of their products. There is a website to search for
approved FDA masks,
http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/devicesatfda/index.cfm
?st=fxx+or+(surgical+mask). On the other hand, the CDC
determines which type of equipment is appropriate for varying
conditions.
You do not need a prescription or any special information to buy
these masks and they can be bought at most pharmacies, medical
supply stores and on the internet. However, if you are buying
from the internet, be certain you are dealing with a reputable
company to be certain you are purchasing quality products.
For the most part, personal protective equipment has proven to
be a very effective way to prevent against infection. However,
the CDC does not suggest or imply the use of these masks is
appropriate for common use to keep from becoming infected. They
suggest, instead, staying home when you are sick and simply
staying away from sick people to prevent the spread of
illnesses. However, with the threat of bird flu, many are
seeking any means available to guard against infection.