Do face masks protect against swine flu?
They’re the instant symbol of the outbreak, but do they work? Snug-fitting medical masks approved by the FDA – like dental or surgery masks – are better than nothing if you need to come in close contact with infected people or you’re in crowded situations, but the CDC says that information on their effectiveness masks is limited. “The risk for infection can be reduced through a combination of actions,” the CDC says. “No single action will provide complete protection, but an approach combining the following steps can help decrease the likelihood of transmission. These actions include frequent hand-washing, covering coughs, and having ill persons stay home, except to seek medical care, and minimize contact with others in the household. Additional measures that can limit transmission of a new influenza strain include voluntary home quarantine of members of households with confirmed or probable swine influenza cases, reduction of unnecessary social contacts, and avoidance whenever possible
