May 11, 2007—The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and its Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released interim advice to the public about the use of facemasks and respirators in certain public (non-occupational) settings during an influenza pandemic.
There is very little research about the value of masks to protect people in public settings. These interim recommendations are based on the best judgment of public health experts who relied in part on information about the protective value of masks in healthcare facilities.
The CDC’s guidance stresses that during an influenza pandemic, a combination of actions will be needed, including handwashing, minimizing the likelihood of exposure by distancing people who are infected or likely to be infected with influenza away from others and treating them with antiviral medications, having people who are caring for ill family members voluntarily stay home, and encouraging people to avoid crowded places and large gatherings. When used in conjunction with such preventive steps, masks and respirators may help prevent some spread of influenza.
This guidance is now part of other community preventive measures available online. For more information about respirators, see NIOSH Safety and Health Topic: Respirators.
