Can Reusing Surgical Masks Increase Your Risk of COVID-19 Infection?

Just like your underwear, a surgical mask will become dirtier and less effective the longer you use it. If it's your goal to serve as a particle barrier, it will function until the material breaks down. For those performing surgery, reusing a mask is highly inadvisable unless you are in dire straits and have no choice.

Mask Reuse Guidelines

Can You Wear a Disposable Mask More Than Once?

Disposable masks can be worn more than once if they are not damaged or dirty. The key is to store them in a paper bag for 2 days or 48 hours, during which any viruses will die. Write down the date of use on the bag. Keep an unused mask as a backup, and do not share it with anyone once it is on your face.

Where to Purchase Paper Bags

Amazon sells paper bags for approximately ￡6 for 200 units. Ensure the mask and its material can withstand multiple put-ons and takes-offs. It is ideal to have several masks on hand at all times.

Mask Condition and Fit

As long as the mask fits well and has no holes, it should remain effective. However, washing your face masks with soap and warm water is crucial to maintain hygiene and effectiveness.

Dispose of the mask if it frays, tears, or no longer fits well. A mask that fits poorly or is damaged is less effective at blocking particles and can pile up viruses, increasing the risk of transferring them to your hands and body.

Reducing the Risk of COVID-19 Infection

The key to reducing the risk of catching COVID-19 is relative risk. You will catch it from people you interact with. The more people you meet, the more likely you are to contract the virus. The closer you are to others, the higher the risk.

Effective barriers, such as masks and perspex barriers, significantly reduce the chance of infection. However, these barriers do not eliminate the risk entirely. Practicing social distancing, reducing the number of people you interact with, and using masks can reduce the risk from one in ten to one in ten million. This is the best you can achieve.