If there is an epidemic of Bird Flu, how can I protect myself and my loved ones?
03/27/2006 New York Times article titled "How Serious Is the Risk of Avian Flu?"says:
"Masks may help, but only if they are a type called N-95, which has to be carefully fitted. So far, masks and gloves have been recommended only for people taking care of sick patients. Avoiding the flu can be hard because it is not always possible to spot carriers. Many people get and spread flu viruses and but never know they are infected..."
Click Here to read more.
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 Bird Flu: The Untold Story |
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According to Dr. Michael Osterholm (an infectious disease expert from the University of Minnesota) - when asked a question on recent Oprah Winfrey Show: " Will wearing a surgical mask protect me from an outbreak?" answered : certain kinds of masks can clearly reduce your risk of contracting the bird flu...Surgical masks prevent doctors from breathing directly on patients, but they have holes and vents on the sides to keep air flowing freely through the mask. Special types of masks (like the N95 Mask) have sealed sides that can block out contaminated air.
But, even with this kind of mask on, you're still at risk, Dr. Osterholm cautions. The bird flu virus can live outside the mask for two to three days. After one wear, you have to properly dispose of the mask to avoid contact with harmful germs.
There is one more problem with the masks…there won't be enough to go around, Dr. Osterholm says. Pandemics can last for up to two years, and since many of our medical supplies are shipped from overseas sources, Dr. Osterholm predicts that America will run out of masks, prescription drugs and other necessities before the threat is over.
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02/26/2006
As avian flu continues to march westward, 3M Co. and other manufacturers of disposable respirator masks that could help contain an outbreak of the disease are racing to keep ahead of demand. Maplewood-based 3M is running at full capacity to fill orders for its N95 masks, but some customers complain that they can't get their orders fast enough..
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Medical Supply Group has N95 & N100 Masks in Stock!
The Model 1870 incorporates a 3M-patented, flat-fold/three-panel design that gives it a comfortable fit unlike any other. Its unique design fits most face sizes and head shapes allowing standardization to a single respirator for use in the OR, for patient care and throughout the rest of the healthcare facility.
Features and Benefits
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3 panel Comfortable Fit to most faces |
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Filters particles 0.3 Microns and larger |
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99% Biological Filtration Efficiency |
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Fluid and Splash Resistant |
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NIOSH approved Type 95 respirator |
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Reduces exposure to airborne particles |
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Soft inner shell improves comfort |
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Free delivery on most orders over $50. Click Here for details |
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Important Message to Consumers from 3M:
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, or NIOSH, is the government agency responsible for testing and certifying respirators. Currently NIOSH is providing the public with the following information. We believe that additional definition and changes are likely to occur as NIOSH and other government agencies formalize their recommendations.
NIOSH does not currently test and certify respirators for use against chemical or biological warfare agents. The respirators are currently tested and certified for hazardous industrial contaminants and applications. In discussions with NIOSH, they suggest using either an air purifying half facepiece respirator (that is one that fits over the nose and under the chin) or an air purifying full facepiece respirator (one that fits over the eyes and under the chin) with P100 (high efficiency) filters for dusts and other solid airborne contaminants and a cartridge for organic vapors and acid gases. These respirators can only be used for escaping from an area and not longer-term exposures. They are also not effective with high concentrations of these agents. Since these respirators do not supply oxygen, they cannot be used in oxygen deficient areas.
There are other very important considerations you need to be aware of regarding use of respiratory products for chemical or biological agents. The type and concentrations of these agents will be unknown, therefore it may not be possible to select the most appropriate respirator. In addition,
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Respirators reduce, but do not eliminate exposure to chemical or biological agents. Respirators do not eliminate the risk of contracting illness, disease or infection. |
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Some chemical warfare agents are not effectively filtered by industrial charcoal cartridges. |
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There may be no obvious warning in the event of release of biological or chemical agents. |
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Respirators may help protect your lungs; however, some chemical agents may be absorbed through the skin or eyes and other protective equipment may be required. |
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Without proper decontamination, materials could create a hazard by bringing the agent into the home. NIOSH does not currently certify respirators for use against chemical or biological warfare agents. |
It is also important to understand that respirators are designed for occupational/professional use by adults who are properly trained in their uses and limitations.
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Fit of the respirator to the face is very important. If it does not fit properly, you will be exposed to the agent you are trying to filter. |
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The individual must be clean-shaven to wear these products. |
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Some people may find a respirator difficult to breathe through and you may want to consult a physician prior to use. |
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The products are not made to fit children's faces. |
All of these are issues that you need to be aware of before making a personal decision regarding use of respirators.
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* This respirator helps protect against certain particulate contaminants but does not eliminate exposure to or risk of contracting any disease or infection. Misuse may result in sickness or death. For proper use, see your supervisor or call 3M OH&ESD Technical Service at 1-800-243-4630.
Avian Bird Flu Information
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