Autumn and the beginning of winter - the season of epidemics of influenza, colds and SARS. That is why during this dangerous period, do not forget about additional protective equipment, such as respiratory masks.
Benefit and protection
Due to the onset of cold weather in many cities, the epidemiological threshold rises by about seventy-five to eighty percent from year to year. In addition to standard cold remedies, such as strengthening immunity, hardening, herbal tea, one of the most reliable ways to avoid infection with a virus is a medical mask. In recent years, the number of people using respiratory masks on the streets of the city, in the subway, hospitals has increased dramatically. Doctors say that this is due to the epidemic of bird and swine flu, as well as Ebola, the consequences of which were actively discussed in the media. Despite the fact that there are more people who prefer such a means of protection, to call this phenomenon massimpossible.
Proof of this are mass events, such as hockey and football matches, where medical masks are distributed during the flu epidemic. However, statistics show that all too often fans are so engrossed in the game that they forget about masks or don't change them according to operating conditions.
Recommendations for use
A flu respiratory mask is recommended as a means of protection not only for he althy and sick people, but also for those who have already had a viral infection this season, as a weakened body is not yet able to resist the onslaught of new viral attacks. Since the virus is transmitted by airborne droplets and can enter the human body even through indirect contact with the patient.
Doctors recommend wearing protective masks not only in unventilated areas where there is a sick person, but also in crowded places, such as a bus, shopping center or on the street.
A sixty percent reduction in the risk of a possible flu infection, according to epidemiologists, is possible by wearing a mask and regularly washing hands with antibacterial soap. However, WHO warns that wearing a mask incorrectly increases the risk of contracting a viral infection.
How to properly wear a respiratory mask (expert advice):
- medical mask, when worn, should cover the entire mouth and nose;
- disposable medical masks need to be changed every two to three hours;
- after removing the usedmasks must be washed with warm water face and sinuses, as well as hands with soap;
- do not reuse a disposable mask, that is, wash or treat with disinfectant sprays.
DIY medical mask
Not every person who is concerned about their he alth can afford to use five or six medical masks a day.
This is due to the fact that, firstly, in some pharmacies in small towns and villages, this product is in short supply, and secondly, the cost of such a remedy increases significantly with the onset of cold weather, as a result, the price of one mask can reach up to twenty rubles.
Virologists have confirmed that in case of emergency, the respiratory mask can be reused, for this it is necessary to wash it with ordinary washing powder and iron it on both sides, the temperature of the iron must be at least seventy degrees. If the above instructions are followed, viruses are completely destroyed.
Many people prefer to make their own masks to save money.
How to make a do-it-yourself anti-virus mask? To do this, you will need a piece of sterile medical gauze measuring 110x55 centimeters and cotton wool.
- Fold a piece of gauze in half, determine the center, then put an even, slightly crumpled layer of cotton wool measuring 35x25 centimeters on it.
- The ends of sterile gauze, not filled with cotton, are cut with scissors, forming two pairs of laces-strings.
- Upper and lower layer maskfolds so that when worn, the mask covers the nose and mouth, leaving the lower part of the chin exposed.
Respiratory masks from fashion designers
During the cold and flu season, many online stores and specialized pharmacies began to distribute unusual haute couture medical masks. For example, on sites you can find masks depicting funny faces, fairy-tale characters, animals, and even heroes of your favorite films. Also, many offer such a service as making masks according to customer sketches.
The author of this idea said in an interview that such exclusive respiratory masks will not only help protect against the virus, but also distinguish their owner from the crowd, and will also contribute to a good mood. In addition, these masks are made from a special material, which means that they retain their color and shape even after repeated washes.
The cost of such exclusive medical masks is about one hundred and fifty - two hundred rubles.
Choice of fabric base
Exclusive face mask (respiratory) is sewn only from cotton fabric or medical sterile gauze. Since the mask made of synthetic fabrics retains harmful bacteria and does not "breathe".
Pre-folded fabric is cut into ten identical rectangles. Press firmly against each other and sew on a typewriter. A colored elastic band is sewn to the edges of the mask. The finished product can be painted with special paints, decorated with embroidery orrhinestones. Interestingly, in addition to its direct purpose, an essential attribute of some photography is a respiratory mask. Photo models mainly use it for "kagao", that is, imitating the modern Japanese movement.
He althy Tips
Wearing a medical mask does not exclude the fact of contracting a viral infection, so doctors recommend staying at least one meter away from people with flu or SARS, and also:
- Wipe hands with disinfectant solutions.
- Do not touch your face with unwashed hands.
- Don't be in crowded places.
- Ventilate the office during work, as well as the bedroom before going to bed.
- Reduce contact with people who show signs of illness, such as cough, runny nose, etc.
Advice for those who are already sick
At the first signs of illness, you should immediately consult a doctor, and also:
- Stay at home, stay away from crowded places.
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing unless you are wearing a respiratory mask. The medical dressing for sneezing and coughing is changed every hour.
- After use, disposable masks and paper tissues should be disposed of immediately.
- It is especially important to wash your hands with antibacterial soap during cold and flu season.
Interesting fact
American scientists said that medical respiratory masks do not protect against viral diseases, but, on the contrary, contribute to the reproduction of pathogenic viruses and bacteria in the respiratory tract. Scientists conducted a study in which 2,000 medical workers took part. The subjects were divided into two groups, the first group used fabric-based masks, the second - non-woven masks. The experiment was carried out for six months. After conducting a study, scientists concluded that he althcare workers who wore cloth-based masks were much more likely to experience weakened immunity and signs of respiratory diseases.
When using respiratory masks, it is important to remember that they do not contribute to the retention of pathogenic bacteria by 100%, but are only an aid in the SARS season.
