“Discussion: To our knowledge this is the first study examining the presence of respiratory viruses on the outer surface of used medical masks…
In this study, the risk of mask contamination was associated with duration of masks use and number of patients seen. Currently there is no standard duration for the time period that facemasks and respirators can safely be used. Theoretically, there may be a risk of infection in wearer if contaminated masks are used for prolonged time. Currently there are no data around risk associated with reuse and extended used of masks and other PPE…
[W]hether the measures in the prevention of bacterial shed from the surgical personnel can become the source of bacterial contamination is worth being discussed. Here, we report that the SMs [surgical masks] may be the potential sources of bacterial contamination with the progression of surgical procedure…
In summary, the topic of SMs in the OR has been controversial. The scientific study to support the OR policies surrounding this topic is marginal. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the SMs is a potential source of bacterial shedding, which may lead to the understanding of the causes of SSI [surgical site infection]. Based on our research, we mainly draw three conclusions: (1) SMs could be the source of bacterial shedding with extended wearing time; thus, we recommend that surgeons must change his/her mask in every operation interval...”
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