A homemade mouth mask works well against the spread of corona, if made properly: made of filter dust and in the shape of a duckbill. This has emerged from research by the Rotterdam Erasmus MC, which responds to a possible masking obligation.
Filter dust that is used in ventilation systems works best, according to researcher Gwen Teesing of the Department of Public Health at Erasmus MC.
“Such a cap, if properly made, sometimes even works better than some medical masks. The filter must meet certain requirements. With the so-called filter class ePM1 85 percent, which indicates how many fine particles the mask filters, you approach the capacity of an FFP2 mask used in healthcare. ”
Wholesale
Where do you buy that fabric? “For the time being only at wholesalers, but if there is a lot of demand for it, I can imagine that other businesses will also sell it. Then pay attention to the correct filter class. ”
Two layers of cotton with kitchen paper in between also filters well, according to the research in collaboration with the Franciscus Gasthuis in Rotterdam and TU Delft, which has now been published in the Journal of Hospital Infection.
Duckbill
A “duckbill” works best, or with space in the front. “The duckbill closes better. This shape is also more comfortable to wear because the cap does not press directly against the nose and mouth, but there is still space inside. ”
All “home masks” have been tested in a so-called particle chamber, where particles as big as a virus particle are sucked into. The idea for the research arose during the first wave, when people made masks themselves en masse. “We wanted to know: what works best?”
Scarcity
Erasmus MC is pleased with the results of the study. A spokesperson: “Good, home-made mouth masks are therefore a good alternative for the population, should the need arise when scarcity arises. In this way we ensure that enough masks, which are really intended for healthcare, also remain available for healthcare. ”
Scientists are divided on the effectiveness of the population wearing mouth masks. Teesing: “Nevertheless, it is clear that wearing certain masks reduces the spread of the virus. In any case, I put my mask on at busy places. ”
