Canadian health officials have stressed that the risk of transmission of the Wuhan coronavirus is low, but in the wake of three confirmed cases people are searching for a way to protect themselves, and many have turned to surgical masks. But can a protective mask really protect you from this new infectious disease? People who are unaware of this may touch the mask with their hands or leave it lying around. “Handwashing is more effective than face masks with this particular virus, particularly if you’re not infected.”Then why do medical workers wear masks in hospitals? Presently, the World Health Organization and the Public Health Agency of Canada recommend those caring for a patient use a medical mask, while the United States is recommending the N95 mask.

Source: National Post January 29, 2020 14:37 UTC