#Recent studies of dmg efficacy how to
#Recent studies of dmg efficacy series

The results show that both expired N95 masks and sterilized N95 masks provided the same level of protection as new N95 masks with greater than 95 percent filtration. They tested the filtration ability of expired N95 masks, N95 masks that had been sterilized for reuse, and dozens of other face mask alternatives. In one study, the researchers sought to determine whether alternatives to high-efficiency N95 masks reserved for health care workers could offer similar protection for hospital personnel in the event of shortages. “We’ve performed hundreds of tests to provide the most useful information for decision makers and the public to help fight this virus.” James Samet, a research biologist and collaborator on the projects. “We were fortunate to have the lab already prepared for a different study before the COVID-19 pandemic set in, so we were able to pivot to help answer important questions UNC Hospitals and other researchers had about masks,” said Dr. Members of the research team wore the face coverings to do the testing themselves. Researchers tested how well different masks and modifications filter out airborne salt particles, which are the same size as the smallest SARS-CoV-2 particles, but are not harmful.

#Recent studies of dmg efficacy series

At the request of University of North Carolina (UNC) Hospitals, EPA scientists are working to understand the effectiveness of masks to protect the wearer against the virus through a series of projects in collaboration with UNC researchers. Public health experts recommend wearing face masks as tools to protect others from breathing potentially infectious particles. Two peer-reviewed articles in the Journal of American Medical Association along with one EPA Report, were published in 2020. This information will help health care professionals and the public better identify the most effective products and allow hospital personnel to prioritize N95 respirators and identify alternatives during shortages. They want to know how effectively different materials can filter out virus particles from the air, whether popular do-it-yourself mask modifications work, and which disinfection methods work well for masks and other types of PPE, like face shields and protective suits. Researchers are rigorously testing masks and other PPE in EPA’s laboratories in Chapel Hill and Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

EPA scientists and others are applying their expertise in aerosol and decontamination research to study the effectiveness of various types of masks for the public and healthcare workers, as well as methods for disinfecting PPE for the public, healthcare workers, and other essential workers, including emergency responders.

#Recent studies of dmg efficacy how to

Check out CDC’s Your Guide to Masks webpage to learn how to select and properly wear a mask.įace masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE) are important tools to protect the wearer and others against COVID-19. CDC recommends that people wear masks in public settings, at events and gatherings, and anywhere they will be around other people.