COVID-19 During Flu Season? A Filtering Mask With These Features Can Reduce Your Risk Of Catching Either
Imagine looking at a group of people from afar and wondering about their customs and the next thing you know you’re adapting that same custom in your world. Pretty bizarre, but it happens.
I remember looking at the Chinese folk on television and wondering why most of them always wore masks. I never pursued this question in my head though. That is, until the COVID-19 pandemic when the rest of the world joined China in donning masks to protect ourselves from the horrible virus.
And now? Masks are part of the new norm, and we’re grateful for them (well, most of us are) as they serve as our new form of protection. They’re especially a blessing during this flu season. Because who wants to catch the flu during Coronavirus? I know I don’t!
There are a variety of face masks available on the market since the onset of this seemingly never-ending pandemic. And just like you shop for clothing, selecting the perfect one that protects you from the “elements” while being comfortable is essential.
So, which is best during this flu season? How do you know which one to get? Let me share some qualities you should look for in the perfect Filtering Facepiece (FFP).
Look for FFP that
- Complies with the WHO’s mandate for masks — The FFP masks you choose should be BSI, CE approved. They should also be EN149:2001 and A1:2009 compliant.
- More effective than a standard disposable mask — For a mask to possess such qualities they need to have PM2.5 particle filtration. This offers 99% bacterial filtration efficiency and 96% 0.1-micron filtration efficiency.
- Resistant to fluids — Having a mask that is resistant to fluids not only helps to protect you from the flu and other viruses (like the ongoing COVID-19 virus), but you won’t have to worry about inhaling fine dust particles which trigger your allergies.
- Provides full protection — Look for the ones with that soft, breathable material that’s comfortable to wear. It should also cover your mouth, nose, and chin for full protection. One thing to note is that most face masks offer full coverage but only one of the other aforementioned features, so you’ll want to look for one that possesses ALL in one.
- Is comfortable — This is sort of a bonus, but still necessary if you’re outside working and need to be protected all day. If that’s the case then you need one that features an adjustable headband and a flexible adjustable nose clip. With that, you’ll be able to simply pull the top and bottom of the mask to open it for a comfy fit!
Remember, you need to get the masks that fit all the features I’ve listed in one. They won’t serve the purpose of comfort and complete protection that you’re looking for if they don’t.
