The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) recommends the use of masks against Covid-19 in confined spaces and believes that it should be considered in busy outdoor areas. However, the EU agency adds that these masks should complement, not replace, other restrictive measures, particularly in view of the lack of scientific evidence.
This is what has emerged from an opinion published on Monday 15 February, which updates a first assessment published in spring 2020 (see EUROPE 12457/7).
Limited scientific data
The European centre has reviewed the different types of masks. It notes first of all that surgical masks (or medical masks) offer a ‘low to moderate’ protective effect against Covid-19, both in terms of personal protection and source control (protection of others), although the degree of evidence is itself low to moderate.
The agency then rates the effectiveness of face filter masks (FFP) as “low to moderate”.
Finally, evidence of the effectiveness of non-medical masks for the prevention of Covid-19 is scarce. Limited indirect evidence from experimental studies has shown that non-medical face masks, such as homemade fabric masks, can reduce the release of respiratory droplets into the environment, although there is conflicting evidence on the relative effectiveness of medical face masks compared to non-medical masks.
The agency further notes a lack of scientific evidence on the effectiveness of visors and clear face masks in preventing Covid-19.
Recommendations
In this context, the ECDC refuses to state a preference for medical or non-medical masks. The centre believes that, in areas with high community transmission, the wearing of a medical or non-medical mask is recommended in enclosed public spaces and should be considered in outdoor areas. It is also recommended for vulnerable and elderly people.
The very limited scientific evidence regarding the use of respirators (face filter masks, FFPs) in the community does not justify their mandatory use in place of other types of face masks in the community.
“Although respirators would not be expected to be inferior to non-medical or medical masks, the difficulties in ensuring their proper fit and use in community settings and the potential adverse effects of reduced breathability should be taken into account”, the agency adds.
Link to the updated ECDC opinion: https://bit.ly/3ajHuhA (Original version in French by Sophie Petitjean)