As Indian are always thirsty for making business, many peoples started selling masks along the roads and many general stores followed the same trend as the demand and usage of masks raised abruptly and became common selling product in market. On that note let us acknowledge how to select a masks that sets us away from COVID.
In dealing with the COVID-19 researchers have determined the diameter of virus to be between 60nm to 140nm. In protection against the virus the front line workers like Doctors and nurses... Were instructed to wear N-95 masks by the government medical bodies like ICMR and also by the WHO.
The medical masks are certified ones .
Their performance characteristics are analysed by standard testing methods (ASTM F2100, EN 14683,... ). This medical mask filters about 3 micrometer droplets so the medical staff who wear this medical mask are instructed to wear it along fabric mask (non-medical) for further protection. Filtering
facepiece respiratory (FFR... which includes N-95) are also certified and tested ones. The FFR can filter about 0.075micrometers aerosols. The FFR are comprised of 4 layers i.e outer layerof spun-bond polypropylene, a second layer of cellulose/polyester, a third layer of melt-blown polypropylene filter material and an inner (fourth) layer of spun-bound polypropylene. Due to the demand and price the common people were unable to afford these masks. The following table will give you an idea where the public should use medical and non- medical masks.
Taking these into account many governments are suggesting to use non medical masks i.e cotton masks, kerchiefs for common public. Even though they don't meet the medical stadards, WHO has suggested the guide lines which relates to the filtration efficiency (FE), breathability, number and combination of cloth used.
To select a proper non-medical mask you should consider the following guidelines which are suggested by WHO.
a) The type of material play the major portion to bring up the required characteristics. The following table contains the detailed characteristics depends on the type of cloth.
b) Number of layers
A minimum of three layers is required for non-medical masks, depending on the fabric used. Non-medical mask made of cotton handkerchief alone should consist of at least 4 layers.
c) Combination of materials
The ideal combination of material for non-medical masks should include three layers as follows: 1) an innermost layer
of a hydrophilic material (e.g. cotton or cotton blends); 2), an outermost layer made of hydrophobic material (e.g.,
polypropylene, polyester, or their blends) which may limit external contamination from penetration through to the wearer’s nose and mouth; 3) a middle hydrophobic layer of
synthetic non-woven material such as polyproplylene or a cotton layer which may enhance filtration or retain droplets. In alternative of non-medical mask you can also use face shield. Combination of the both brings better protection.
Along with the mask face shield will be preferable where social distancing of at least 1 meter is not available.
Maintenance of masks
1. Masks should only be used by one person
2. Masks should be changed after it was soiled and wet
3. Washing with hot water is preferable.
4. If hot water is not available, wash mask with soap/detergent.
A warrior should aware of the quality and condition of the armour he wears during the battle.
I can find the information regarding covid-19 Vaccine
I- Covid-19 Vaccine Salvation from Pandemic
II- Covid vaccine race @INDIA
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