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Epidemiologia e Serviços de Saúde
versión impresa ISSN 1679-4974versión On-line ISSN 2237-9622
Resumen
SOUSA, Iago Torres Cortês de et al. Homemade masks in the COVID-19 pandemic: recommendations, physical characteristics, disinfection and efficacy. Epidemiol. Serv. Saúde [online]. 2021, vol.30, n.4, e2020997. Epub 08-Oct-2021. ISSN 1679-4974. http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/s1679-49742021000400003.
Objective
To describe the recommendations, physical characteristics, disinfection methods and efficacy of the use of homemade face masks to reduce COVID-19 transmission.
Methods
We searched MEDLINE, SciELO, and Google Scholar, in addition to the official recommendations for the use of masks.
Results
Thirty-one references were included. Fabric filtration efficiency ranged from 5% to 98%. The filtration efficacy of three layered 100% cotton fabric face masks ranged from 70% and 99% in vitro studies. Homemade, surgical, and respirator masks showed breathability between 2.2 and 3.0 Pascal. The capacity to reduce the spread of microorganisms by people wearing homemade face masks was three times lower when compared to those wearing surgical masks, although this capacity was higher when compared to those who did not wear masks.
Conclusion
The breathability of homemade masks proved to be adequate, while the filtration ability seemed to be lower than that of surgical masks, but it was better than not wearing any masks at all. There is no evidence to support the efficacy and effectiveness of homemade masks.
Palabras clave : Betacoronavirus; Coronavirus infections; Respiratory Infections; Face Masks; Respiratory Protective Equipment; Review.