Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
The first patient of Covid-19 variant Omicron in Hong Kong is suspected of transmitting the virus through valve mask air. The following are the dangers of valve masks according to experts.
According to Hong Kong Radio Television (RTHK), this allegation emerged after a microbiologist from the University of Hong Kong, Yuen Kwok Yung, released the results of his investigation on Thursday (26/11).
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has previously advised the public not to wear valve masks. This is because masks cannot protect users from Covid-19.
These masks generally come with valves that make breathing easier. However, this mask cannot fully protect you from virus transmission, including the Omicron variant of Covid-19.
“They (valve masks) do feel more comfortable to use. However, you are not protecting the people around you. We strongly discourage people from using valve masks,” said Infectious Diseases Expert Maybeth Sexton, as quoted CNN, last September 2020.
He said the valves on the masks made it easier for air to flow in and out.
“We strongly discourage people from wearing valve masks,” said Sexton.
A similar statement was issued by researchers from Florida Atlantic University.
As reported AFP, masks equipped with breathing valves allow invisible droplet particles to be dispersed into the surrounding area when the user sneezes or coughs.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University used vertical and horizontal laser sheets to track water droplets spreading from the perforated head of a mannequin equipped with a valved mask.
The valve on the mask was originally installed to make it easier for the user to breathe. However, the researchers found that the droplets could pass through and through the valve without a filter.
Valve masks are actually meant for construction workers so they can inhale filtered air and exhale through valves. The valve can also reduce heat and humidity inside the mask which makes it more comfortable to wear for a long time.
Unfortunately, this design is not effective enough to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, including Covid-19.
Then, what kind of masks are recommended in the midst of the ongoing pandemic and the emergence of the Omicron variant of Covid-19? Check the guide here.
(aud / agn)
– .
