STANFORD , Calif., May 21, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Face masks are effective at
filtering out aerosol transmission of influenza and may be effective against the
H1N1 virus at home, U.S. researchers found.
Lawrence M. Wein and Michael P. Atkinson of Stanford University constructed a
mathematical model of aerosol transmission of the flu to explore infection
control measures in the home.
The model predicted that the use of face protection including N95 respirators --
which fit tight around the face and are often worn by construction workers --
and surgical masks -- these fit looser around the face and are often worn by
dental hygienists -- are effective in preventing the flu.
The filters in surgical masks keep out 98 percent of the virus. However, only 30
percent of the benefits of the respirators and masks are achieved if they are
used only after an infected person develops symptoms.
"Our research aids in the understanding of the efficacy of infection control
measures for influenza, and provides a framework about the routes of
transmission," the study authors said in a statement.
The findings are published in the journal Risk Analysis.
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Copyright 2009 by United Press International