No good answer yet for decontaminating masks for reuse

No single method for decontaminating healthcare workers' personal protective equipment (PPE) for reuse stands out as best, according to a study published on Thursday in the American Journal of Infection Control, and reuse is not recommended if it can be avoided.

Researchers analyzed 40 studies that tested various methods for sterilization of N95 masks and higher-end filters.

They included steam, hydrogen peroxide, ultraviolet light, microwaves, and electric cookers, among others.

Disinfection agents such as bleach, soap and water and alcohol were also tested. The outcomes differed by mask model, manufacturer and sterilization or disinfection process.

Furthermore, most methods appeared to result in at least some structural damage or weakening of the masks' filtration ability, according to coauthor Vanessa de Brito Poveda of University of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Along with disinfection or sterilization processes, health systems that reuse masks must consider the need for traceability, if the same mask may be shared by different professionals; controlling the number of reuses of each mask; training personnel to inspect mask integrity and functionality after routine wear and tear, and cleaning methods to eliminate organic matter and soil (like residual cosmetics).

"The scientific evidence available until this moment do not support any process as safe," de Brito Poveda said, although she believes automated methods are safer than manual methods. -- Reuters