Can face masks protect against severe respiratory disease coronavirus syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2)? Faruque Ahmad, MD, recently studied the role of face masks in mitigating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, and other options that could mitigate its spread. In doing so they highlight some of the problems of universal insult and suggest other practices that may help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The researcher published their study in the latest issue of Saudi Journal of Medicine (2020).
It is believed that the virus usually spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person comes into contact with an unprotected person. Among the mitigation strategies used in many countries, then, it is highly recommended, if not mandatory, that people wear face masks when outdoors. in public and when interacting with individuals outside their families. Face masks have therefore been incorporated into public health policy guidelines to reduce the spread of the virus in many parts of the world.
Since presymptomatic carriers are thought to be responsible for 50% of SARS-CoV-2 infections, a small reduction in community transmission with masks could make a big difference. This is despite the fact that “strategic measures of face mask reveal a false sense of security and could lead to death in certain groups of the population,” Ahmad suggests.
However, in some cases, the researcher suggests that wearing a face mask may lead to a false sense of security and lead to a decline in social speed and handwashing compliance. Moreover, as a new common practice for most, the level of mask safety may not be met by everyone and lead to non-compliance in use, reuse and disposal. , which may increase referral opportunities.
In addition, for certain conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), severe and chronic respiratory infections, asthma, apnea and dyspnea, etc., it is also wise to avoid face masks and social distance and measures others that are proposed to be maintained. Limited relief as a result of a face mask may alter the concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood, leading to other problems in this sensitive group. Similarly, during exercise, wearing a face mask is invisible.
Current guidance of the U.S. Health Disease Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) recommends wearing face shields during patient treatment, especially for SARS-CoV-2 and avian influenza. Studies show the benefits of viral protection in frontal wings (96%) and body distance (92%).
Greater protection, reusable, easy to clean: these are the main benefits of using a face mask, without any discomfort or discomfort that a face mask can cause, recommends Ahmad. While face shields are extremely useful, social distance – the age-based, time-dependent method – is the most effective way to control the spread and prevent fomites.
As many countries are facing a second wave of the diffuse attack, the author wants to find alternate trade on the front line.
Overall, the researcher confirms that the face shields and social distance may be a better replacement for face masks for specific groups of people and / or in specific contexts (COPD, respiratory disease). gloomy and harmful, outdoor exercise, old age, underlying medical conditions, and hypercapnia sensitive groups). However, further clinical studies are needed, the author warns.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently recommends: “Everyone should use a face mask in a public place but this should be avoided. on children under 2 years of age or on someone who has respiratory problems, is unable or unable to remove a face mask without the help of others. “
While other options may help, as this recent study shows, wearing masks in public remains an important protective measure to mitigate the spread of SARS-CoV-2. The study also highlights the public health risks associated with wearing mascara clothing with other essential mitigation measures, such as social distance and hand hygiene.