The most asked question today is “The flu face mask – is it effective?” The answer to that is “yes – to a certain degree”. This is because face masks and respirators can give a person protection against the H1N1 flu as it is effective in stopping large droplets, globules and spittle etc that could infect you. But these are not a total defense against the very tiny and minute microorganisms that are airborne and can enter through the corners of a facemask that is not tied on well.
One should realize that there are different types of masks that can be worn. They are surgical procedure masks, the N95 face mask or respirator, the common dust mask etc. Out of these, the N95 masks are the most efficient and effective and reduce the risk of infection. This is because they are made to filter out the small viruses and bacteria that are bigger than 3 microns in the air. However these masks are difficult to breathe through for long periods time.
One should remember that these face flu masks are to be disposed of carefully. This means one should take care not to touch the contaminated outside surface. These masks should not be re-worn and should be fitted correctly and tightly on the face making sure that there are no openings. Hands should be washed frequently after handling the used masks. Many masks are not fluid or water resistant and do not meet filtration standards. Therefore it is better to wear the N95 face mask which is resistant to fluids and filter microorganisms. This is the first choice of a good face mask. The second would be the surgical mask.
The use of the Smittstopp spray is recommended as one can easily get infected by viruses on surfaces. This spray adheres or sticks to the surface well and coats it with a layer of cationic polymer that is positively charged and acts like a strong magnet attracting the negatively charged microorganisms like viruses and bacteria. This is electrostatic attraction and is very effective as the spray kills the viruses the instant they get stuck to the sprayed surface. Not having a chance to spread or breed, the environment is thus kept safe and the risks of infection are reduced.
The Smittstopp spray can also be used on clothes as the effect does not wear off even after dozens of washes. The flu face mask can be sprayed inside out to double its efficiency. Not only does the spray give a long term protection, but it is also a good cleaner that rids all grease, fats and dirt from surfaces. Common sprays should not be used over the Smittstopp spray as these are negatively charged and will thus neutralize the Smittstopp effect.
All surfaces that can be easily contaminated in public areas like hotels, restaurants, libraries, terminals, malls etc should be sprayed with this Smittstopp spray. Personal items like house and car keys, cell phones, hand bags and purses, and even items of jewelry can be sprayed to reduce risks of infection. Schools and educational institutions should spray the table tops, toilets, taps, switches, door knobs and railings etc to ensure the safety to students and staff alike.
If one is wondering about the importance of the flu face mask – is it effective or not, a quick look at this article will let you know that it is the responsibility of each individual to take all precautionary measures recommended by health officials and authorities, and wearing the face flu mask is definitely one of them!
