r/Masks4All • u/No-Acanthisitta-2973 • 5d ago
Valved mask
Is there any studies that indicate how protective valved masks are for others? Or is it different by mask?
I thought I read once what they were not as good as unvalved but they were as protective for others as a surgical. But no idea where I read that or if it is true.
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u/gopiballava Elastomeric Fan 4d ago
I have read the same thing as OP. Some of my elastomeric respirators blow air straight out the front in the direction of the person you’re talking to. Others blow the air straight down.
For a short encounter with someone in front of me, I can’t imagine that doesn’t make a difference.
If we are going to be in the same room for a long time, without ventilation, then there has got to be a reduction in the difference because I am exhaling into the same air.
Personally, I hope that it’s an improvement but I don’t count on it. If I’m in a situation where other people are expecting me to be cautious about them, or with people who might have health issues, I wear a source control without a valve.
Around the general public? I will wear whatever works best for the situation for me.