What are protective masks used for?

Protective masks are used for various purposes, primarily to help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets that may contain viruses or other infectious agents. The key purposes of wearing protective masks include:

1. Preventing the Spread of Illness: Masks act as a barrier to respiratory droplets, reducing the risk of transmitting infections from person to person. This is particularly important in preventing the spread of respiratory viruses like COVID-19.

2. Protecting the Wearer: Certain masks, such as N95 respirators, provide a higher level of protection and are designed to filter out small particles, offering a degree of protection for the wearer against inhaling harmful substances.

3. Occupational Safety: In various industries, workers wear masks to protect themselves from exposure to dust, chemicals, and other hazardous substances.

4. Environmental Protection: Masks can also be used in environments with poor air quality to filter out pollutants and particulate matter.

5. Allergen Reduction: Some masks are designed to filter out allergens, providing relief for individuals who suffer from allergies.

It's important to note that the effectiveness of masks can vary based on the type of mask, proper usage, and adherence to guidelines provided by health authorities. Additionally, masks are just one part of a comprehensive approach to preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and other measures such as hand hygiene and social distancing are also crucial.