Masks not necessary for protection against coronavirus; hand-washing is best

MASKS

Health officials wear face masks at an inspection site at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang, Malaysia, on Jan. 21. Countries both in the Asia-Pacific and elsewhere initiated body temperature checks at airports, railway stations and along highways in hopes of catching those at risk of carrying a new coronavirus. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian)AP

CLEVELAND, Ohio — In China, where an outbreak of coronavirus has killed hundreds, wearing face masks in public is mandatory. But that probably will not happen here, doctors say.

“Masks are not recommended for general use” in this country, said Dr. Kristin Englund, staff physician in the infectious-disease department of the Cleveland Clinic.

The coronavirus, which causes a pneumonia-like illness, is becoming more widespread in China, but there are only five confirmed cases in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC doesn’t recommended Americans wear masks in public, according to CNN.

Health masks — whether made of cloth or paper, or the sturdier N95 respirator masks — aren’t recommended because the coronavirus infects people when they touch a contaminated surface, then touch their mouth or eyes, spreading the illness, Englund said.

While coronavirus spreads through droplets in the air, scientists think that it is more virulent when picked up from a contaminated surface, she said.

“Wearing a mask is not the best way to avoid transmission [of coronavirus],” Englund said. Hand-washing is a more effective way to prevent the spread of viruses, including influenza.

Here is more information about face masks, coronavirus and effective ways to stay healthy:

Who should wear a face mask?

Hospitals ask sick people, and those who are in close contact with sick people, to wear masks, Englund said. The mask prevents sick people from spreading viruses.

What is the difference between cloth or paper masks and N95 respirator masks?

Disposable and loose-fitting cloth or paper masks are often worn by clinicians while treating patients. These masks prevent germ-laden droplets from escaping from the nose and mouth, according to Healthline, an online health site.

Cloth or paper masks offer protection from large particles, but not smaller particles, such as viruses, Englund said.

N95 respirator masks, certified by the CDC and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, can filter out 95% of airborne particles. They are considered more effective at preventing the flu virus than regular masks, and they protect against small and large particles, according to Healthline.

Physicians and nurses wear surgical N95 respirator masks when dealing with highly infectious patients. Home DIYers can also buy a type of N95 respirator mask for home use. These masks do filter out small particles, but they need to be fitted correctly to ensure they fit snugly against the face, Englund said.

How much do masks cost?

Home Depot sells N95 respirators in a pack of five for $15. A single respirator costs about $8 at Walmart.

Amazon lists a 100-pack of disposable woven face masks for $20.

Which kind of mask is better?

An improperly fitted N95 respirator mask won’t work any better than a cloth or paper mask, Englund said. Surgical N95 respirators worn by physicians and nurses are regularly tested to be sure they fit snugly.

Are stores running out of masks?

Some major retail stores in Texas began running out of face masks after a potential case of coronavirus was announced, according to CNN.

Seattle drugstores began selling out of surgical masks within hours of the first confirmed U.S. case of coronavirus, and large quantities of the masks are being sold in New York and Los Angeles, BBC reported.

Discount Drug Mart has seen an uptick in sales of both N95 respirators and regular masks, leading to low inventory, said pharmacist Jason Briscoe, director of pharmacy operations. Some stores are out of respirators and masks completely, so calling ahead to see if your local store has them in stock is smart, Briscoe said.

Are masks effective against flu?

Some studies have shown that using a surgical mask can help prevent influenza, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pairing a surgical mask and an alcohol-based hand sanitizer was shown to reduce the number of influenza-like illnesses in a group of students living in a college dormitory even more than using a surgical mask alone.

The best way to prevent influenza is to receive the flu vaccine.

How should masks be disposed of?

It’s OK to throw them in the trash, but pull them off by the ear loops. Avoid touching the front of the mask, where germs lurk.

Which is better: washing your hands properly and frequently, wearing a mask, or both?

While masks do decrease the risk of getting sick, they aren’t a substitute for other protective measures, Briscoe said. These include:

· Being up to date with your immunizations for flu and pneumonia.

· Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If using a hand sanitizer (when soap/water is unavailable), be sure it contains at least 60% alcohol.

· Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.

· Staying home when you are sick.

· Covering your cough/sneeze with a tissue, then discarding the tissue in the trash.

· Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Which is a bigger threat, the flu or coronavirus?

Englund sees people who are not concerned enough about influenza, which can lead to deadly complications. The threat of coronavirus in the United States is low, but we are in the middle of a heavy flu season.

Where can I go for up-to-date information about coronavirus?

The CDC posts information and updates and prevention steps.

Read more on coronavirus:

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