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Can a N95 mask really help you prevent coronavirus infection?

Everyone across the globe is figuring out ways to deal with the menace of coronavirus. While a foolproof solution is yet to be found, N95 masks are giving us hope.
prevent coronavirus
We finally have answers to which masks are the safest to use. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Published by Nikita Bhardwaj
Updated On: 4 Mar 2020, 06:39 pm IST
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With the rising number of deaths every passing day, coronavirus is leading to a health emergency situation not just in China but across the globe. From first world countries to international organizations – everyone is concerned about the severity of the situation. 

Newspapers, web, and social media – the novel coronavirus is becoming the talk of the town. We have already told you everything that you need to know about this deadly virus. But new details are emerging about how you can prevent coronavirus–especially since news of China importing N95 masks from India are doing the rounds. 

This begs the questions…  

Are N95 masks helpful when it comes to the prevention of coronavirus?
The government of The Republic of China has already made wearing face masks mandatory. In fact, Chinese citizens can be seen wearing inexpensive surgical masks–which if experts are to be believed are not a foolproof method to prevent coronavirus. 

But the American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has shown a ray of hope as it says that N95 anti-pollution masks are highly effective when it comes to the prevention of transmission of viruses. That said, they also recommend wearing gloves and eye protection gear like goggles to prevent contamination.  

coronavirus
Prevention is best when it comes to coronavirus, because it has no cure. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

N95 masks also have drawbacks
While these masks seem like good measures, if you have respiratory issues then this mask can make you feel claustrophobic as it needs to fit perfectly on your nose and mouth. 

Not to mention, if they’re not covering your mouth and nose properly then the chances of inhaling the virus and other particles are quite high. In short, these masks don’t offer 100% protection. 

The novel coronavirus infection has no cure, so it’s all about prevention
The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that there is no vaccine available to treat people infected by coronavirus. So, prevention is the key here. 

Dr Sandeep Budhiraja, group medical director, Max Healthcare, Saket, Delhi suggests three measures that help you prevent the virus: 

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What is your go-to home remedy for managing PCOD symptoms?

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What is your top health and wellness goal?

  1. Wash your hands as often as you can. 
  2. Wear a mask when you step out and avoid crowded places. 
  3. If you are suffering from flu like symptoms, or know somebody who is, visit a doctor.  

Remember, coronavirus is crossing borders–so, let’s take precautionary steps to ensure that it doesn’t touchdown in our home.

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About The Author
Nikita Bhardwaj
Nikita Bhardwaj

Six-pack abs are all that Nikita needs, along with her daily dose of green tea. At Health Shots, she produces videos, podcasts, stories, and other kick-ass content.

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