Tips

Distinguishing Medical Masks from Paper Masks

Face masks have become an integral part of our daily lives, offering protection and peace of mind. The two most common types of masks are medical masks and paper masks. It's important to know the difference between these two options to make an informed choice. Let's delve into the details and uncover the unique features of each, empowering you to make the right decision for your health and well-being.

Administrator

7 August, 2024

Choosing the right face mask and using it correctly can help prevent viral infections, especially the coronavirus, which causes acute pneumonia and spreads rapidly from person to person. Many people mistakenly believe that medical masks and paper masks are the same, but in fact, these two types of masks have distinct differences.

1. Structural Features

Medical masks typically have three layers, each with a specific function: the outermost layer is usually green and is water-resistant, preventing liquid droplets from spreading when the wearer coughs or sneezes; the middle layer acts as a filter, trapping tiny dust particles and bacteria; the innermost layer is designed to be smooth and absorbent, wicking away sweat and providing comfort for the user.

Paper masks, on the other hand, usually have only two layers, one of which is a filter, and the other is a water-resistant layer. Additionally, there are now paper masks with three layers, including an antibacterial layer, which are recommended by experts.

2. Dust and Bacteria Filtration

Due to their multi-layered design, medical masks are highly effective at filtering out dust and bacteria, even those of minuscule size. This feature significantly reduces the risk of contracting infectious diseases.

Paper masks, while offering some protection, are less effective at filtering dust and bacteria compared to medical masks.

3. Price

Medical masks are affordable, typically costing between 35,000 and 55,000 VND for a box of 48 masks. Paper masks are even cheaper, with a box of 50 masks priced at around 25,000 VND.

We hope that through this article, you can now differentiate between medical and paper masks and make an informed choice to protect your health and that of your family, especially during this challenging time of epidemics. Additionally, you can refer to … for more health protection tips.

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Frequently asked questions

Medical masks are made of multiple layers of non-woven fabric, often with a melt-blown filter layer, and are designed to protect both the wearer and others from droplets and aerosols. They are typically used in healthcare settings and are certified to meet certain standards, such as BFE and PFE. Paper masks, on the other hand, are usually made of paper or paper-like materials and offer limited protection. They are not designed to protect against small particles and are not suitable for medical use.

Medical masks are designed to fit snugly against the face, with elastic ear loops or head straps to secure them in place. They should have a waterproof layer to prevent droplets from penetrating the mask and multiple layers to filter out particles. Look for masks that are certified to meet specific standards, such as ASTM, BFE, and PFE, to ensure their effectiveness.

Paper masks may offer some protection against larger droplets, but they are not effective against smaller particles and aerosols that may transmit COVID-19. They do not have the same filtration capabilities as medical masks and are not designed to fit tightly against the face, allowing for potential leakage. While paper masks may be better than no mask at all, they should not be relied upon for protection against COVID-19.

You can purchase genuine medical masks from reputable pharmacies, medical supply stores, or online retailers. Look for masks that are clearly labeled as meeting certain standards, such as ASTM Level 2 or 3, and check for certification marks on the packaging. Be wary of extremely low-priced masks, as they may be counterfeit or lack the necessary filtration capabilities.

Used medical masks should be disposed of safely and responsibly. Place the used mask in a plastic bag and seal it tightly before disposing of it in a covered trash bin. Make sure to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after touching the used mask to minimize the risk of spreading germs.