There is great confusion regarding the question of masks after the news circulated that the BAG is now recommending masks for everyday use. However, the message turned out to be wrong. But: What should you pay attention to with the masks? You need to know:
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Which mask protects better? The homemade textile mask or the hygiene mask?
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It depends on two factors: how well the mask fits the face and how good the tissue is. For fabric masks, it is advisable to pay attention to the “Testex Community Mask” label. This was developed by the Empa research institute and the Swiss testing and certification company Testex. These masks correspond to uniform specifications in the filter function, the spray resistance or the textile compatibility. The standard EN 14683 applies to surgical masks (surgical masks).
Masks with particle filters are less suitable for everyday use and are only recommended in special areas, for example for medical staff with certain medical treatments.
Industrially manufactured textile masks can be worn if they meet the requirements of the “Testex Community Mask” label. Like the hygiene masks, they protect others from infection. However, the Federal Office of Public Health advises against self-sewn masks because they do not offer reliable protection. It is also clear that it is not enough to wrap a scarf or a scarf around your mouth and nose. The protective effect is too low to replace a mask.
The testing and certification company Testex recommends washing the mask at least 60 degrees Celsius before wearing it for the first time. After that, according to Testex, the fabric mask can be cleaned in the washing machine at least four more times.
Cell and molecular biologist Peter Wick works at the EMPA research institute and, together with epidemiologists, has investigated the protective effect of masks. He says: «I cannot provide any remote diagnosis for this. The effectiveness depends on the filter and the substance used. At a later stage, they can be a viable and sustainable way, but for now, norms and standards have to be defined. »
Yes, for example that of the Swiss haute couture fabric manufacturer Jakob Schläpfer. These are sewn according to the recommendations of the Swiss National Covid-19 Science Task Force, tested by Empa, and embroidered with lace or sequins, depending on your taste. A three-pack of fabric masks is available from CHF 36; a mask with sequin embroidery costs 95 francs.
When coughing or sneezing, some of the droplets remain in the mask tissue. In addition, the mask brakes the airflow vigorously. The droplets that escape from the mask move much less than with an unchecked airflow. This reduces the risk of other people becoming infected. To a certain extent, the mask also protects the person who wears it. Both effects come into play especially when people cannot keep the recommended distance of 1.5 meters. More and more studies are coming to the conclusion that mask wear plays an important role in containing the epidemic.
Since the virus is also spread through the hands, the hands should be washed before putting on and after taking off the mask. The mask should only be touched by the straps. It must completely cover the nose and mouth. If the mask has a metal bracket, it should be bent so that the tissue is as close as possible to the nose. The mask is replaced as soon as it is moistened with the air we breathe. Disposable masks should be disposed of immediately after use, reusable cloth masks should be washed at least 60 degrees.
The Federal Office of Public Health recommends wearing a mask in all situations if the minimum distance of 1.5 meters from other people cannot be maintained. The only exception: if there are partition walls or similar protective devices.
In many places, disposable masks cost between 70 centimes and one franc per piece. If you are lucky and benefit from an action, you can get it cheaper. Fabric masks – apart from the design pieces – often cost around 15 to 20 francs, but they can be worn several times.
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