FFP2 masks are so effective!

More than just an accessory in the pandemic: FFP2 masks are a safe and effective companion in the current times. A study shows: FPP2 masks can drastically reduce the risk of infection – provided they are worn correctly.

FFP2 masks protect more effectively against corona infection than distance rules. A study by the Max Planck Institute shows that if an infected and a healthy person are indoors at a short distance, the risk of infection is less than 0.14 percent – provided both are wearing a well-fitting FFP2 mask. Vaccinated people are even more protected.

FFP2 mask: This is how high the risk of infection is without a mask

While there was no mask requirement at the beginning of the  pandemic  , over time people switched to medical surgical masks or fabric masks, and later to safe FFP2 masks. The researchers have now taken a closer look at some of these options. The scenario: Two people talk indoors for 20 minutes – this is how high the risk of infection is:

• Conversation without a mask, but three meters away:  99 percent
• Conversation with a surgical mask, no distance:  10.4 percent
• Conversation with FFP2 mask without gap:  0.14 percent

However, it is important that the mask is worn correctly. The following aspects must be taken into account:

• The mask covers the mouth and nose.
• The mask fits as tightly as possible around the edges: If you breathe past the mask, this is an indication that it is not sitting properly.
• Before and after wearing: Hands washed.
• Always remove the mask at the rear end of the straps.
• Replace damp masks, dry and reuse after seven days at the earliest.
• Wear the mask for a maximum of eight hours in total, then dispose of it.

If the mask does not fit properly, the risk of infection can increase by 4.2 percent.

Almost real conditions created

In order to create a real environment, the researchers considered various factors. Among other things, particle size, physical components during exhalation and different types of masks. However, the risk of becoming infected with an FFP2 mask could be a touch lower in real life – the breathing air that flows out of the mask at the edges is usually more diluted.

However, in order to make the study as reliable as possible, this factor was not taken into account.

The results show that the FFP2 mask is an important tool in the fight against the pandemic and can be used to prevent possible infections.