What protection do respirators offer compared to surgical masks?

Respirators filter about 95% of airborne particles, while surgical masks block approximately 40%, according to studies.

How did the WHO respond to the call for new mask guidelines?

A WHO spokesperson indicated the letter would receive careful review, and the organization is currently updating its infection control guidelines.

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Surgical Masks Fail Against Covid: Experts Demand Respirators

Q: Why are experts calling for changes to WHO mask guidelines?

Experts believe surgical masks offer inadequate protection against airborne pathogens like Covid-19 and recommend respirators for better safety.

9 Jan

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Summary

Experts argue surgical masks offer inadequate protection against airborne pathogens like Covid.
They urge WHO to replace surgical masks with respirator-level masks for healthcare workers.
Respirators filter 95% of particles, while surgical masks block only about 40%.

Surgical Masks Fail Against Covid: Experts Demand Respirators

A group of experts is urging the World Health Organization (WHO) to update its guidelines, recommending that healthcare professionals switch from surgical masks to respirator-level masks for all patient interactions. They contend that surgical masks are obsolete and offer insufficient protection against airborne pathogens like Covid-19, with studies suggesting they only block approximately 40% of relevant particles, compared to respirators' 95% efficacy.

This proposal stems from discussions aimed at implementing evidence-based policies and has garnered support from numerous clinicians and researchers. The experts emphasize that using respirators would lead to fewer infections in both patients and healthcare workers, thereby reducing sickness and burnout. They acknowledge that surgical masks are better than no protection but highlight the significant risk reduction offered by respirators.