The Life of a Face Mask: from Production to Use to Disposal

See t.ly/rlle — Face mask usage is a critical means of limiting SARS-CoV-2 airborne transmission. To the best of our knowledge, a single study reviewing all major life stages of a mask has yet to be conducted. Here, we first describe the production and material sourcing of respirators, surgical/procedural masks, and cloth masks. We then evaluate filtration efficiency, fit, and breathability in estimating emitted viral load and personal compliance. In decontamination, vaporous hydrogen peroxide and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation are feasible and effective methods for large healthcare systems, while washing is recommended for masks with no electrostatic charge (e.g., cotton…