Types of face masks against COVID-19

There are several types of face masks to combat the spread of different viruses, including the current COVID-19. In the following post we explain each type of face mask. Keep reading!

Face masks, together with hand washing and social distancing, have become our best weapons to fight against COVID-19, following the recommendations of the Spanish Ministry of Health and the WHO (World Health Organization).

For this reason, and given the current situation in which face masks are an essential item and mandatory in our country, at Farmaciasdirect we have lowered the price of these masks, out of responsibility towards society.

Types of face masks

Hygienic

Hygienic masks are the most accessible, as they can be found in a wide variety of establishments. These masks protect others more than they protect us. Therefore, their use is recommended to prevent the spread of the virus. There are two types of hygienic masks, depending on how they are used:

• Disposable: these should not continue to be used after 4 hours. In addition, if the masks become dirty or damp, they should be replaced immediately, as they would no longer fulfil their purpose. These items have 95% filtration efficiency.
• Reusable: the manufacturer will indicate the maximum number of washes they can undergo to guarantee their effectiveness. These masks have a filtration efficiency equal to or greater than 90%.

Mascarilla Higiénica Desechable Negra 100 Unidades.

For more information about these hygienic masks, click here.

Surgical

Surgical masks are those that are related to the healthcare sector, as they filter exhaled air and, therefore, the person wearing one would not contaminate the patient. However, they do not protect the wearer from infection and they are not reusable either.

This type of mask should not be used for more than 4 hours, although it should be changed or replaced with another if it becomes dirty or damp.

Surgical masks must fit our face over the nose, mouth and chin in order to use this item correctly.

Access the following article through this link.

PPE (FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 masks)

These masks are Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and are the most recommended for those who work in close contact with the public, as they filter inhaled air, preventing infection by viruses such as COVID-19.

There are three types of PPE masks and they are divided according to their characteristics:

• FFP1:they serve to avoid infecting others, but do not protect the person wearing them. This product is known as protective equipment with minimum filtration.
• FFP2 and FFP3: these are the most recommended types of masks, because they serve both to avoid infecting others and to protect the person using them. However, if they have an exhalation valve, they would only serve to protect.

This type of mask should not be used for more than 4 hours, although it must be changed or replaced with another if it becomes dirty or damp.

In addition, on the Farmaciasdirect website you can find a wide catalogue of products for COVID-19 protection, including these masks, hydroalcoholic gels, ear savers, contactless thermometers...