How to Prevent the Flu With a Surgical Mask

According to the Mayo Clinic, a normal surgical mask does not guard against particles that can transport the flu virus into the lungs. To fight of the flu virus, you could wear a N95 respirator. Unlike a surgical mask, the N95 respirator fits tightly on your face. If you are in the medical field, the Centers for Disease Control recommends that medical personnel use a N95 respirator when treating someone with H1N1 (swine flu). Wearing a surgical mask if you have the swine flu or seasonal flu will help to ward off germs if you cough or sneeze. A mask's purpose is to guard against large portions of droplets that may contain germs or laced with a virus such as the flu.

Things You'll Need

• surgical mask or N95 respirator

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Instructions

Proper Use

• 1

  Wash your hands before putting on the mask. Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.

• 2

  Attach the mask or respirator to your face, making sure that it properly covers your nose and mouth.
  Adjust the straps so that respirator fits tight on your face. A snug fit will block out germs.

• 3

  Discard the mask properly in the trash. To throw the mask away properly, put it in a plastic bag and throw the plastic bag in a trash can.