Now that the new coronavirus is also spreading outside of China, it is impossible to wear mouth masks. There is also an increasing demand for caps in the Netherlands.
But it makes little sense to get a mask like that, says Professor of Medical Microbiology Bert Niesters of the UMC in Groningen. According to him, most mouth masks offer hardly any extra protection against viruses, or can only be worn for a short time due to the heavy filter.
Niesters elaborates on the ‘surgeon’s cap’ and a heavier FFP2 mouth cap, which are currently both being sold well. “One is not suitable for stopping viruses, while the other is not practical at all,” explains Niesters to Radar.
What can you do to stay free of a virus? Simple, according to the professor. ‘As always, the same applies now: wash your hands thoroughly with soap. That prevents the spread of viruses, and is more effective than a surgeon’s cap. “
The heavy FFP2 mouthpiece with dust filter is used by doctors who come into contact with infectious diseases, but is then part of several precautions. ‘In such a situation, a doctor wears more protective equipment, a whole suit, as it were, and the cap is only part of it. For example, anyone who covers his mouth but still forgets the eyes can also get a virus infection. “
So the advice is: wash your hands thoroughly with soap. “And always sneeze in your elbow,” Niesters adds. “This way you prevent you from infecting others when you have a virus among the members.”
Also read: Everything you need to know about the new corona virus
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