Reuse of Medical Masks: What You Need to Know Before Using Again

How many times can a medical mask be used?

During times of increased epidemic, many individuals purchase and utilize masks. Specifically, medical masks, which are designed to aid users in avoiding dirt and preventing the spread of bacteria through droplets such as coughing and sneezing, adhere to the National Standard TCVN 8389-1:2010.

Typically, medical masks have a flat, folded design and are composed of non-woven fabrics, a microfiltration layer, nose splints, and straps. The mask has two sides with different colors, with one dark side (blue, white, black, etc.) and the other side usually being white to ensure proper usage.

Currently, there are 2 to 4 layer masks available on the market that are waterproof. The level of protection against bacteria and dirt varies depending on the thickness. The most commonly used medical mask is the 3-layer mask.

It is important to note that medical masks are not designed to be washed and should only be used once. Reusing a mask increases the risk of infection as bacteria and dirt from the outside can cling to the mask.

Currently, there is a prevalence of fake and low-quality medical masks in the market. It is recommended to purchase masks from pharmacies or reputable supermarket chains. It is also important to learn how to differentiate between genuine and fake medical masks to ensure the right choice and protect the health of yourself and your family.

Types of medical masks to buy

N95 mask

The N95 mask is considered the best protective mask with almost 100% protection. It can effectively prevent viruses up to 95%, microparticles of 0.3 microns or smaller, and bacteria up to 100%.

N95 masks are commonly used by testing technicians and medical personnel when directly examining, treating, and caring for individuals infected with COVID-19.

Additionally, N95 masks offer 100% protection against dust and pollen. However, these masks may make it more difficult for the wearer to breathe. Easy breathing while wearing an N95 mask may indicate incorrect usage or a counterfeit product.

2-4 layer antibacterial medical mask

This type of mask is highly recommended due to its 98% level of protection. It is also more breathable and easier to wear compared to N95 masks. These masks consist of multiple layers, including a microfiltration membrane that aids in bacterial prevention and is waterproof.

This type of mask is suitable for staff, medical personnel, and individuals involved in medical examinations and treatments in high-risk environments or those in contact with sick individuals.

FFP1 Mask

FFP1 masks provide a high level of protection, approximately 99%. They can prevent viruses and bacteria up to 95% and filter at least 80% of particles up to 0.6 microns in size. These masks are recommended for work settings where exposure does not exceed 4 times the Occupational Exposure Limit (OEL) and provide over 80% resistance to dust and pollen.

FFP1 masks are suitable for individuals working in medical, agricultural, construction, and food industries.

Carbon Mask

Carbon masks, also known as activated carbon masks, offer a moderate level of protection (over 70%), with only 10% protection against viruses and bacteria. They are often used by workers in the wood manufacturing and construction industries to limit inhalation of fine dust. These masks can also prevent dust and pollen by over 50% and provide protection against sunlight, UV rays, and certain respiratory diseases such as tuberculosis and flu. However, carbon masks are less effective in preventing the spread of the Corona virus compared to other types of masks.

Notes when using medical masks

In February 2021, the Ministry of Health issued Decision No. 1053/QD-BYT, which provides guidelines for wearing masks in order to prevent and control the COVID-19 epidemic in public places.

Situations where wearing medical masks is mandatory include patients, managers, employees, individuals visiting medical facilities, individuals suspected of having the disease at medical facilities or concentrated isolation areas, and individuals in households that are isolating at home.

In other situations such as closed spaces, crowded places, or places where maintaining a distance of less than 2 meters is difficult, individuals are recommended to use cloth masks or regular medical masks.

When wearing a medical mask, it should only be used once and not reused in order to ensure the safety of the wearer’s health and better respiratory system and skin protection.

For cloth masks, they can be reused until they are torn or old, but it is important to regularly wash them with soap every 1-2 days and dry them in the sun to remove bacteria.

Source: Ministry of Health, VNVC

With the current evolving epidemic situation, it is important for everyone to have adequate knowledge and practice proper prevention measures.