How does wearing a mask reduce the spread of infection?

Amidst global health concerns, it is crucial to be vigilant when it comes to the use of personal protection equipment. In recent months, the general public has taken precautions including social distancing, increasing sanitisation and frequently washing their hands to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Upon new research revealing that face masks can significantly reduce the risk of an infected individual spreading the virus, the Australian government has recently updated its guidelines to advise that masks should be worn in public places where it may be difficult to physically distance from others.

There is an increasing amount of evidence to suggest the efficacy of face masks in preventing the spread of infection. Recent studies have indicated that masks can block the microscopic droplets that are emitted through speech, breathing or coughing and sneezing to reduce the risk of an individual spreading the infection to other members of the public. Individuals who have come into close contact with a known case of the virus have also been proven to be far less likely to contract the virus when the infected person was wearing a mask.

The Victorian government has advised that face masks should be worn with the recommendation that cloth and surgical masks are the most suitable in preventing community transmission. Surgical face masks, also known as medical masks, cover the nose and mouth and act as a barrier to droplets and aerosols that have the potential to be infectious by filtering out large particles and droplets in the air. Face masks have also been shown to significantly limit the spread of respiratory secretions from the wearer. While guidelines state that face masks can reduce the spread of COVID-19, it is still important to observe social distancing measures and wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.

For business owners, the impact of the pandemic has been profound with many customer-facing entities pausing or dramatically altering their operations in-line with government public health measures. Disposable gloves are widely used in cafes and restaurants to prevent the spread of microorganisms.  Another way in which many business owners are protecting staff and customers is through the use of a body thermometer. An infrared device can be used to determine whether someone has a temperature or fever in less than a second before permitting them to enter a store or restaurant. Body thermometers are also particularly useful in the healthcare industry where the temperatures of patients can easily be recorded and monitored. This body thermometer even features a handy fever alarm to ensure that a patient receives additional care if necessary.

Fildes Food Safety offers a range of high-quality commercial kitchen supplies available for use in the workplace, commercial kitchens, healthcare facilities and schools to prevent the spread of infection. With a range of protection products available including face masks, disposable gloves, body thermometers and sanitizing solutions, Fildes Food Safety stocks a range of commercial supplies designed to protect public health.