[Rumor x Truth] Are 'Myeon Masks' Really Ineffective at Blocking Viruses?

[Asia Economy Reporter Shinwon Yoon] As the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) spreads, obtaining masks has become truly "like catching stars in the sky." Although the government has actively stepped up to resolve the mask shortage, the scarcity of masks continues, leading to an increase in citizens wearing cloth masks instead of certified quality masks (KF·Korea Filter). Is it acceptable to wear masks made of cloth material?

Initially, the government recommended wearing health masks labeled KF80, KF94, etc., to prevent COVID-19. Jung Eun-kyung, Director of the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stated, "Masks are worn to block viruses," adding, "Cloth masks tend to get wet and have limitations in fully protecting against viruses."

However, as people struggled to obtain masks due to the shortage, Kim Kang-lip, Vice Minister of Health and Welfare, said, "KF94 and KF99 masks are recommended for medical personnel," and "For daily life, health masks like KF80 or cold-weather masks are sufficiently effective in preventing infection," presenting a somewhat contradictory view.

What do experts think? On the 26th, Professor Chun Eun-mi of the Respiratory Medicine Department at Ewha Mokdong Hospital appeared on CBS Radio's "Kim Hyun-jung's News Show" and said, "In enclosed spaces, when someone sneezes or coughs, if small droplets contain the virus, nearby people can inhale them," adding, "There is some risk of infection, so it is not completely safe."

However, she added, "It is better than not wearing one at all," and explained, "In enclosed spaces like wedding halls or movie theaters, health masks should be used, but if you are not in close proximity to others, wearing a cloth mask is somewhat acceptable."

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety also holds the position that using cloth masks as a secondary option is acceptable. When health masks are unavailable, temporarily wearing surgical masks or cloth masks helps block droplet transmission and prevents touching the nose or mouth with hands.

There is also controversy regarding mask reuse. Experts generally recommend using masks only once and disposing of them, but for masks that are used briefly and seem wasteful to discard, they advise washing hands before touching them.

Professor Chun Eun-mi said, "When you put the mask in a bag and take it out again, you will inevitably touch the mask with your hands," adding, "If you wash your hands with soap under running water for more than 30 seconds, most viruses are eliminated, so in such cases, washing your hands thoroughly is sufficient."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.