N-95 mask only for health workers, says health dept

PANAJI: The health department has issued a circular against the inappropriate use of N-95 masks by the public. The N-95 mask is recommended for designated health workers, but many people have also started using it. A valved respirator N-95 mask is detrimental to the measures adopted for preventing the spread of coronavirus as it does not prevent the virus from escaping out of the mask, the circular states.
The circular issued on Wednesday states that people should follow guidelines issued by the Union ministry of health and family welfare and avoid inappropriate use of masks.
A pharmacist in Mapusa said that though N-95 masks are to be used by health professionals only, there are others who are unaware about it and use them. “N-95 masks have to be discarded after use, but some people re-use them after washing,” he said.
The demand for N-95 masks, has dropped as compared to three months ago, but there is still poor awareness about its usage among the public, he said. He said people should preferably use reuseable cotton layered masks.
The N-95 mask was sold for over Rs 250 in March, but are now available for less than Rs 200, he said. “A week later, the cost will drop further. Still, some pharmacies continue to charge more for N-95 masks as people are unaware,” the pharmacist said.