Face masks and respirators. Choices for health workers in COVID-19 pandemics

ABSTRACT

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the health care workers derived, among other factors, due to the lack of adequate personal protection equipment, especially face masks and respirators. The forms of transmission are reviewed, taking into consideration that the main route of infections is through aerosols, microparticles smaller than 60-100 microns that are exhaled during aerosol generating procedures (AGP) or even through coughing, sneezing or speaking;and that these forms of transmission are capable of remaining floating for prolonged periods of time in closed spaces. Although the N95 are indicated for the care of patients diagnosed or suspected of COVID-19 because they offer greater protection against aerosols, they are not always available due to their scarcity derived from their high consumption worldwide. In this review the most appropriate alternatives for the shortage crisis are analyzed, trying to prioritize those who have access to materials with filtering efficiency and face sealing to avoid leaks. The appearance of new and more contagious varieties of the virus should obligate all health care workers to always use respirators or medical face masks with greater efficiency within the hospital environment and not only during aerosol generating procedures.