In this new normal era, one of the health protocols that must be carried out while doing activities outside the home is to use personal protective equipment or PPE. Masks and face shields are two of the most protective devices that are currently used by the public in preventing coronavirus transmission.
Although both have advantages and disadvantages of each, many people think that a face shield can provide better protection than a mask. This assumption exists because the face shield is considered more able to protect parts of the face, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth to the maximum from droplets.
Then, is it true that people’s opinions? Well, so you better know which is better between the two types of personal protective equipment, here are some things you need to know before choosing it, mask or face shield.
A face shield is no more effective than a mask
According to a specialist in infectious diseases who is also the chair of medicine at NYU Winthrop Hospital, Bruce Polsky, the face shield for the general public is a personal protective device that is additional or complementary that is used together with a mask. Using a face shield APD without a mask is not recommended because the gap on the side of the face shield is very possible for small particles that may contain coronavirus to enter and infect the body.
Unlike the mask, the face shield also does not have a barrier component that is able to block the aerosol secretion of breathing from its users. Therefore, the use of a face shield without a mask is considered ineffective to prevent coronavirus.
A face shield is highly recommended for medical staff
For Polsky, a face shield is an extra PPE that must be used by medical personnel or other parties who have to be in close contact with people who are at high risk of coronavirus exposure. This is because the face shield is useful for protecting the eyes of medical personnel when making close contact with someone who has – or is suspected to have – COVID-19.
Well, here are some things you need to know about using personal protective equipment, masks, and face shields. Don’t forget to keep wearing a mask when you are outside.
Sources: Popbella