Can you re-use FFP2 Masks? from freeamfva's blog

More and more people now wear FFP2 masks while shopping to protect themselves and others from Sars-CoV-2. With concern rising about the more contagious British variant of the coronavirus, politicians called for FFP2 masks to become compulsory nationally. Bavaria already requires FFP2 masks - in public transport and shops. Berlin hasn't gone as far: as of 24 January, a "medical" mask (including both surgical and FFP2) must be worn.To get more news about famous medical mask factory outlet, you can visit tnkme.com official website.

But how do FFP2 masks differ from cloth masks? What is the best way to wear them and how can they be cleaned? Below, we try to answer the most common FFP2 questions.

Reduced risk of infection

It is now well known that Sars-CoV-2 is primarily transmitted through droplets and aerosols. Several studies have shown that basic cloth masks - whether homemade or purchased - can reduce this kind of transmission. They prevent droplets and aerosols from spreading. However, the protection they offer the wearer is limited.

Respirators, also called FFP masks, protect against aerogenic transmission but can also significantly minimise the risk of infection for the wearer. German health minister Jens Spahn nevertheless urged caution: "Even FFP2 masks do not offer 100 per cent protection against the coronavirus. But they significantly reduce the risk of infection."FFP stands for "Filtering Face Piece". The masks are made of hardened multi-layer paper or fabrics and contain filters. These masks come in three protective classes - FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3. The lowest-class mask, FFP1, protects mainly against non-toxic dusts. The FFP2 mask is suitable for protection against harmful solid and liquid dusts, smoke and aerosols. It also provides protection against airborne infectious agents. FFP2 masks are especially effective in filtering particles out of inhaled or exhaled air.

FFP3 masks are recommended for handling carcinogenic substances and pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and fungal spores. They are mostly used by medical personnel.
FFP masks must be worn correctly and changed often. They must fit very tightly to the face and sit some distance above the mouth and nose. People with beards are advised to shave. Optimal filtration only occurs when there is an airtight fit to the skin. You can tell if an FFP2 mask fits properly if the mask collapses slightly when you inhale.

FFP2 masks, which are standardised throughout Europe, filter out at least 95 per cent of particles. Some FFP masks have a valve to facilitate inhalation and exhalation. However, this has drawbacks: through the valve, the mask wearer can contaminate his or her environment with exhaled droplets. This is because the masks with an exhalation valve only filter inhaled air and therefore offer less protection to others.
FFP2 masks make breathing more difficult
When using an FFP2 mask, breathing is more difficult due to the built-in filter. The additional strain on the respiratory muscles is comparable to breathing through a straw and can result in shortness of breath - so you should think carefully about when and for how long you want to wear the mask.

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