Shield or face mask: researchers say a tool has more benefits



[ad_1]

You have probably noticed for a long time that some people seen on television wear shields instead of masks. These are simple sheets of plastic attached to the face to block exhaled drops. Unlike quality masks and respirators, aerosols (extremely small drops of liquid) continue to spread; face shields do not stop them in any way. However, larger droplets are retained.

People on TV screens do not choose panels for some health reasons. Masks would block their faces, and this is not acceptable for television. Sign language interpreters cannot wear masks because some hearing impaired people read from their lips. After all, we’ve repeatedly heard recommendations that masks aren’t always necessary, and it’s best to leave high-end respirators for those who really need them.

University of Iowa researchers say panels have more advantages than masks. They are easy to produce and distribute, are inexpensive, and can still significantly reduce the risk of infection spreading.

Dr. Elis Perencevich reports data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. USA, reporting that some masks, especially those made by people themselves, do not filter aerosols well enough. According to the expert, this suggests that a face shield may be a better option. It is true that it must still be of high quality: a good shield ends under the chin, covers the ears and does not leave a large space on the forehead.

Such panels also do not stop the aerosols, but direct most of them downwards, that is, away from other people’s faces. The panels are also easier to transport and can be used over and over again. They are very easy to disinfect with alcohol or simply with soapy water. The panels are also more comfortable, they do not restrict breathing, they do not press the ears and the glasses spray less. The panel also reminds you not to touch your face: unlike a mask, it also covers the eyes, through which it is possible to infect COVID-19.

You’ve probably noticed that when people talk, they often take off the masks because they just can’t be heard. Once again, some people who are extremely well known and in positions of responsibility do so knowing that they are being filmed. Face shields do not interfere with speech. They also make you smile, which is more important than ever right now.

No more extensive research has been done, but simple simulations at the University of Iowa have shown that the panel protects against 96 percent. Viruses spread from the mouth of a coughing person 45 cm away. Realistically, those numbers would probably be 92-96%, which really isn’t a bad thing.

Of course, this is just an expert opinion, not a formal recommendation or fact confirmed by research. But over time, we will have to figure out how to get out of this global crisis, and hygiene requirements will relax a bit. People should know that sometimes they don’t need masks; Depending on the environment, one panel would be sufficient for them.

You can read more about it HERE.



[ad_2]