Disposable masks, particularly surgical masks, have become a widely recognized and utilized form of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Application
Barrier Protection:
Disposable masks primarily act as a physical barrier to prevent the expulsion and inhalation of respiratory droplets, which can carry viruses and bacteria. They help to limit the spread of infections transmitted through these droplets, especially during activities like coughing, sneezing, or talking.
Protection for Others:
A significant function of these masks is to protect those around the wearer by containing the wearer’s own respiratory emissions.
Protection for the wearer:
They also provide some protection to the wearer, by blocking larger droplets from entering their nose and mouth.