Wellness

[patbz]

Just a theoretical question:  are there any alternatives to N95 masks?  As an exqmple, could a person take a cotton bandana, fold it in thirds and make a pocket to put in a charcoal filter?  Just wondering because if/when virus hits USA as a pandemic, you know there is going to be a critical shortage of masks.

[chrystaltree]

Now you are just being silly.

[ahoymate]

Of course NOT! Even with the N95 masks, they only last a day!!!!!! They need replaced daily to work.

People use all kinds of things, some knowing they are not working but use to keep thinking they are helping. 

FYI......Google is your friend.

[CherryHugs]

This article says yes there are a few:

https://www.msn.com/en-ph/health/medical/4-effective-alternatives-if-you-dont-have-an-n95-mask/ar-BB...

[CherryHugs]

You can order the N95 on / amazon, saw some this morning.

[phoenixbrd]

@CherryHugs   I read the article you suggested. I appreciate your attempt to solve  and google effort to answer question.  However, the suggested alternatives do not seem any where near as effective as the N95 mask (i.e. a wet bandanna, 2 surgical masks).  The surgical mask is not effective.  Hopefully, work is underway to come up with something at least as effective as the N95 and, yet, more practical.  

[ahoymate]

Talk with you MD! They are the experts. Specfically a pulmonologist.

[CherryHugs]

@phoenixbrd  Well you are right Im sure     Was only thinking just a temp thing for a short time if you didnt have the right mask tho??   

I used to have an N95 mask and hope i can find it just in case/ Praying we do NOT have a massive outbreak in the USA!!

[I am still oxox]

Are you infected if not you do not need a mask. They preccent infecton from spreading not from getting it

[KingstonsMom]

Luckily I stocked up on the N95 recommended by the CDC, I bought a case.