Which masks are allowed and which are forbidden? [WE EXPLAIN]

From Saturday, February 27, new regulations regarding the obligation to cover the nose and mouth will apply. It is forbidden to cover the mouth and nose with scarves, shawls, and the use of helmets. What masks are recommended?

1. The new mask rules apply from February 27
2. Scarves, scarves and visors are removed from the list of acceptable forms of face covering
3. All types of masks are allowed – it is important that they are worn correctly, i.e. they must cover the mouth and nose
4. Surgical masks and above are recommended, but not mandated, by the Medical Council, e.g. FFP2
5. You can find more such stories on the TvoiLokony home page

Helmets, scarves and scarves are forbidden

In the case of helmets, scarves, bandanas and headscarves, there is no room for doubt – the Minister of Health announced that they were banned from Saturday.

– In the case of helmets, this means that they can be used additionally, together with a mask – said the Minister of Health, Adam Niedzielski at the Wednesday press conference, during which the changes were announced.

However, they cannot be the only cover for the mouth and nose.

– Helmets aren’t good protection. They constitute a mechanical barrier that protects the eyes to some extent, but does not fully cover the face – said Prof. Paradowska-Stankiewicz.

– The SARS-CoV-2 virus spreads by airborne droplets and air – recalled prof. Iwona Paradowska-Stankiewicz.

As the expert explained, the basis for preventing the spread of the virus is the use of masks, maintaining social distancing, washing hands, airing rooms.

– Masks that tightly cover the mouth and nose are able to reduce the transmission of pathogens by up to 90 percent. – said Paradowska-Stankiewicz.

— Regardless of what the mask is, it is a very good cover and protection against coronavirus inhalation – emphasized the expert.

— Recommended masks are surgical masks and above Said the national national epidemiology consultant. She emphasized that the most important thing is proper wearing, i.e. covering the nose and mouth. Importantly, all types of masks are allowed.

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Surgical masks, FFP2 – recommendations of the Ministry of Health

All masks are acceptable, and surgical masks are recommended by the Medical Council, as well as more specialized ones, e.g. with filters. Prof. Paradowska-Stankiewicz said that the most important thing is to wear masks, not helmets or scarves.

Surgical masks and FFP2 are considered a better solution than, for example, cotton masks. In some European countries (e.g. the Czech Republic or Germany), only medical masks are already allowed. Therefore, there will probably be official information about wearing them this week. However, the health minister said that only a recommendation would be issued on this matter. In practice, this means that although the government will recommend this form of face and nose protection, there is no mandate for using a regular mask.

Surgical masks are disposable. After a dozen or so minutes from putting them on, you need to take them off and throw them away. Surgical masks are not intended to filter the air, but to create a physical barrier between mucous membranes and potential contamination. They protect against larger particles, not the viruses themselves. However, surgical masks provide an effective barrier against aerosols in which viruses may be present.

1. You can buy medical masks at Medonet Market

As for FFP2 masks, they belong to the group of half masks (together with FFP1 and FFP3). Their task is to trap airborne dusts and aerosols. FFP masks consist of a very dense weave material and a purifying filter. You can find both disposable and reusable models among them. The type of mask can be identified by labeling: R – for multiple use, NR – single use (max. 8 hours of use). The filter must be changed regularly in reusable masks.

Homemade masks – no information on recommendations yet

What about cotton masks? During the conference, we learned that they are acceptable. They will not be banned.

1. Also check out: Six ways to protect yourself from coronavirus infection that are not worthwhile. Scientists debunk myths

Cotton masks constitute a physical barrier between the mucous membranes and external factors. These types of anti-virus masks can be used repeatedly, but only if they are properly washed before the next use. The water should be 60 degrees Celsius and contain soap or detergent.

Also read:

1. What are the types of face masks? [WE EXPLAIN]
2. The doctor advises how to breathe with a mask
3. Cloth masks do not protect against the mutant virus? Only medical masks are compulsory in Germany
4. More and more countries are introducing the obligation to wear FFP2 masks
5. Dr.Fauci: Americans may be wearing face masks in 2022