Face mask fit modifications that improve source control performance.

ABSTRACT:

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, face masks are used as source control devices to reduce the expulsion of respiratory aerosols from infected people. Modifications such as mask braces, earloop straps, knotting and tucking, and double masking have been proposed to improve mask fit however the data on source control are limited.

Methods

The effectiveness of mask fit modifications was determined by conducting fit tests on human subjects and simulator manikins and by performing simulated coughs and exhalations using a source control measurement system.

Results

Medical masks without modification blocked ≥56% of cough aerosols and ≥42% of exhaled aerosols. Modifying fit by crossing the earloops or placing a bracket under the mask did not increase performance, while u

SUBMITTER: Blachere FM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8674119 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature