N-95 Mask / N95 Mask
Lynne Heckert, DDS, JD
The Flu News unfolded in a way I had not expected. My fear had been primarily that the deadly avian flu would mutate in a way that allowed it to be easily transmitted from human to human. While H to H transmission has occurred over the last few years, it has been limited so far.
Now, a new strain of flu has emerged, H1N1 (Swine) Flu. This virus is not very severe in most cases but it has learned to transmit H to H very efficiently. It is now spreading quickly over the entire world.
I do not believe you can count on government to protect you in case of a Flu Pandemic. Antivirals (Tamiflu, Relenza) could be in short supply and/or difficult for governments to distribute, and at present there IS NO VACCINE. You will need face masks and other personal protection as well as a family emergency plan (stored food and water, etc.) . Stocks of face masks are going fast and one mask is not enough. Masks need to be worn properly and discarded safely after use. On this site you will learn which masks protect against this small airborne virus and which do not. The N-95 / N95 mask is the mask recommended by CDC and Health care experts.
Recently some have made statements that non-medical and first responders should not use masks, that masks will offer no protection. You should know that virologists disagree, primarily because research on this topic has been sparse and conflicting. And, of course, there is concern that, if everyone buys masks, there will be an inadequate supply for healthcare workers and first responders
My opinion (and many agree) is that it is common sense that a mask will offer protection. No matter whether flu virus is spread by aerosol or droplet, or both, a mask between your respiratory system has to be much superior to having no mask. I also believe it is silly to assume non-medical people cannot learn to wear and remove a mask properly. In addition, it is common sense that if one does not have a mask that filters particles and fluids 100 percent, or id one cannot tolerate an n95 mask, any mask is better than no mask. Click for an explanation of mask types.
Do not forget that Flu virus is spread by droplets and it can live outside the body for a while. It can be caught from surfaces (use disinfectant) or from contaminated air. All mucous membranes must protected (It is not clear right now whether eyes can be a route of flu spread). This means goggles can be considered for eyes, with wrap around glasses being better than no eye protection. Latex exam gloves are excellent protection: they should be removed with out touching the outside. They act as a psychological barrier to keep you from putting your hands in your mouth, eyes and nose. Coveralls may also be needed when one knows one is exposed.
Disposal of used equipment without touching the infected surface is a must. No hanging your mask from one ear, wearing it on mouth but not nose, etc.
Masks should not be re-worn and should be disposed of without touching the outside. Hand washing follows equipment removal.
Hand washing in all circumstances at frequent intervals and at after touching surfaces is a good idea. Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, followed by disposal of the tissue is a must. Public spitting should not be practiced or tolerated.
© 2005-2010 Lynne Heckert, DDS, JD All rights reserved. No portion of this or any DentalSmarts.com site may be used without express (written) permission.
Dr. Lynne Heckert, a general practitioner, has practiced and taught dentistry and dental law for over 25 years. More about Dr. Lynne.
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An observational study published in the April 1, 2010 issue of Clinical Infectious Diseases suggests that surgical masks are just as effective as respirators in this regard. ScienceDaily. March 29, 2010