Do You Need To Use A Tissue-coated Cloth Mask? This Is The Expert Said

JAKARTA - The use of masks is mandatory during the COVID-19 pandemic. The recommended mask is a medical mask, or a three-layer cloth mask. Meanwhile, the government prohibits the use of scuba or buff masks because they are considered useless against COVID-19.

Health experts recommend using a three-layer cloth mask to provide up to 90 percent protection against the transmission of the virus that causes COVID-19, as long as it fits properly, the right type of cloth and takes it off appropriately. So, cloth masks don't need to be covered with tissue when used.

"According to scientific studies there is no need (to use tissue). Prof. Wiku (Spokesperson for the COVID-19 Handling Task Force) suggested three layers. By covering (wearing a mask) and reducing the droplets that come out, transmission should be suppressed or reduced by up to 85 percent. There has been a lot of scientific data, even research says 90 percent. It is as important as wearing a mask, as long as you wear it correctly and the mask is chosen correctly, "said clinical practitioner and COVID-19 volunteer, dr. Muhamad Fajri Adda'i to Antara, Friday, September 18.

Meanwhile, the recommended cloth to be used as a mask is cult cotton. This fabric has a density of 180 threads per inch and is capable of filtering fine particles.

"Good material is cotton. If good cotton is cult cotton, it is cotton with a density of 180 threads per inch. Just look at the cotton is a bit thick. In addition, it is possible to have a silk mask because it has the ability to prevent the entry of fine particles. Cotton with chiffon is also good," said Fajri.

As per recent study findings in the journal ACS Nano, studies show that the cotton material most widely used for masks performs better at yarn density and can make a significant difference in filtering efficiency.

In terms of filtration efficiency or the ability to filter particles, hybrid masks (such as cotton-silk, cotton-chiffon, cotton-flannel) are more than 80 percent (for particles <300 nm) and more than 90 percent (for particles> 300 nm).

However, pay attention to the installation of the mask that is not right, causing gaps. This condition can reduce filtering efficiency by more than 60 percent.

"Wear it from nose to chin. If it is tilted, it is useless," said Fajri.