Coronavirus (23) Use of masks (3)

31 March, 2020

Dear All,

I can only imagine if it is difficult to obtain masks for Covid 19 droplet prevention in the UK it must be much more difficult in Zambia. [*see notes below]

Please see attached instructions for making a mask that you can insert a filter into e.g. from hoover bags which can protect against particles.

Down to 3 micron in size.

What I do know is that the masks could be adopted as a cottage industry at the very least for healthcare workers.

Kind regards

Tom Browne

HIFA-Zambia profile: Tom Browne is Director of Out to Africa NHS Trust Link Country in Zambia/UK. meht.ota AT gmail.com

[*Notes from HIFA-Zambia moderator:

1. HIFA-Zambia does not carry attachments but a similar document is available here: https://www.avera.org/app/files/public/76443/Olson-Mask-with-Pattern.pdf

2. The effectiveness of cloth masks is unproven and this is a controversial area, with different people recommending different things.

3. Personally I would recommend to follow WHO advice, as this is based on the best available evidence:

- If you are healthy, you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with suspected 2019-nCoV infection.

- Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing.

- Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.

- If you wear a mask, then you must know how to use it and dispose of it properly.

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-f...