BF.7 reportedly has the strongest infectivity, is faster to transmit than other infections, and easy to infect people who have had a Covid infection, or been vaccinated, or both.
The omicron variant of COVID has rapidly evolved into multiple sub-variants since its emergence in late 2021. One sub-variant, BF.7, was recently identified as the main variant spreading in Beijing, contributing to a further increase in COVID infections. in China. According to reports, BF.7 has the strongest infectivity, faster to transmit than other infections, and easy to infect people who have had a covid infection, or been vaccinated, or both. The new subvariant of Covid has been behind the massive increase in millions of deaths in China in the coming months. The same subvariant has infected 4 people in India, but health authorities have reported that there is no need to panic for now.
People have started taking precautions now as part of their daily routine to counter the spread of the virus. However, there is still a disconnect in choosing the correct skin. So today we’ll share five things you need to know before choosing the right mask to ensure maximum protection.
5 things to know before choosing the right mask:
- Filtration capacity: Before buying a mask, try to understand its filtration efficiency. ISI branded FFP2 masks are ideal against dust, pollution and viruses as FFP2 masks filter particles down to 0.1 microns with at least 95% efficiency.
- Types of masks Some types of masks are: Cloth masks: protect only from heavy dust particles. Surgical Masks: ISI Certified to IS 16289:2014, Ideal for Medical Professionals Disposable FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 Masks, ISI Certified to IS 9473:2002, Provides 90% to 97% filtration and protection against contamination, dust and pathogens .
- Breathability: Depending on your lifestyle and level of physical activity, it is crucial to test the breathability of the mask. Since masks have become a part of our routine now, one should invest in comfortable and breathable masks. Choose a mask that allows ample air ventilation and makes breathing easier.
- Certified masks: The Indian government has recently taken a very focused approach to mask certification parameters. The Government of India has established compliances for face masks not only in the testing stages but also in the manufacturing stages. A company’s manufacturing and testing facilities must comply with the BIS, ISO 13485:2016 standards. A user should always look for ISI certified face masks.
- The correct fit: Masks are intended to save you and those around you from disease prevention. Therefore, the fit matters. The mask should cover your nose and ideally fit across the bridge of your nose and cheeks, and also sit comfortably under your chin with no gaps. Having to readjust your mask over and over again is very distracting and compromises your health and safety.
(IANS entries)
