How to Prevent the Flu With a Surgical Mask

According to the Mayo Clinic, a normal surgical mask does not guard against particles that can transport the flu virus into the lungs. To fight of the flu virus, you could wear a N95 respirator. Unlike a surgical mask, the N95 respirator fits tightly on your face. If you are in the medical field, the Centers for Disease Control recommends that medical personnel use a N95 respirator when treating someone with H1N1 (swine flu). Wearing a surgical mask if you have the swine flu or seasonal flu will help to ward off germs if you cough or sneeze. A mask's purpose is to guard against large portions of droplets that may contain germs or laced with a virus such as the flu.

Things You'll Need

• surgical mask or N95 respirator

Instructions

Proper Use

1. Wash your hands before putting on the mask. Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.

2. Attach the mask or respirator to your face, making sure that it properly covers your nose and mouth.
   Adjust the straps so that respirator fits tight on your face. A snug fit will block out germs.

3. Discard the mask properly in the trash. To throw the mask away properly, put it in a plastic bag and throw the plastic bag in a trash can.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not touch the mask while you have it on. If you touch the mask, then you run the risk of spreading germs.

• Make sure that the mask is not torn or damaged. Damage will affect the effectiveness of the mask in preventing the spread of the flu.

• Do not re-use a disposable mask or respirator.

• Do not share your mask because it could result in transporting germs.

References

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration
• Mayo Clinic

Resources

• Flu spread prevention
• OSHA surgical mask fact sheet