The federal scientific task force questions the usefulness of an FFP2 requirement in everyday life. The effectiveness of the FFP2 masks is higher than that of the surgical masks. But at the same time, their correct application is more difficult, the task force announced on Friday. That requires training, which would be difficult to implement for the entire population.
The difficulty lies in adapting the FFP2 masks to the shape of the face and in finding the right model for the person wearing it. In addition, given the unpredictable duration of the corona pandemic, it would not be easy to keep people motivated to wear these masks.
Health risks for high risk patients
Possible health risks would also have to be considered, for example for people with restricted lung function or – because of the tight fit of the mask – from facial dermatitis. Therefore, the use of FFP2 masks should only be considered for people at risk after a doctor has carefully weighed the benefits and risks.
And finally, there is more and more evidence of the protective effect of surgical masks. The task force therefore questions the benefit of an FFP2 mask requirement for the general public in everyday situations such as in public transport.
It is undisputed that the effectiveness of the high-performance respiratory protection masks of the FFP2 type “when used correctly” surpasses the tested surgical or community masks. This applies to the protection of those who wear masks as well as to those around them. (SDA)
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