Hi, I Have Below Questions In Respect Of Being Safe

Posted on Sun, 12 Apr 2020

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, I have below questions in respect of being safe during this pandemic situation.
1. How long can I use one N95 (3M brand) musk? Can I clean and reuse it?
2. Should I sanitize the grocery bags and items immediately after bringing it home from the supermarket?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Jolanda (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Up to three days

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome in Ask the Doctor

I can understand your concern

Regarding this worldwide situation WHO has already give some rules in being safe for the overall population.
A N95 mask can be used for up to three days maximally. The optimal usage of using it would be one day but regarding the difficulty to find masks nowadays they can be use for maximally three days with the condition that during the day do not touch it with your hands.
No it should not be cleaned and reuse it just do as above.
Yes you should sanitise the groceries bags immediately after coming back at home. Or you can leave them untouched for 2 days
You should also wear gloves during your outside period.

Hope to have been helpful

Regards

Dr.Jolanda

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj