UK running short of surgical and dust masks.

[Mooseshooz]

Hi peeps. Just heard there is a shortage of surgical and dust masks in the UK. Checked by Screwfix it certainly looks that way. I'm not sure how effective they are at stopping the virus spread but might be an idea to grab a few if you see them...just in case. Oh and maybe some nitrile gloves ?

[hobo]

Seem to be plenty online.

[jennyjj01]

Beware some online are USED or even COUNTERFEIT.
On amazon and ebay, prices are through the roof compared to say Screwfix & Toolstation where prices are normal.
In another thread, someone said try Wickes and I'll add, try your local Tile shops.

Look for P3 of FFP3

[Nurseandy]

Probably worth noting that masks from screwfix, wickes etc only stop dust, not bacteria or viruses. Even the majority of pukka surgical masks are used to prevent the surgeon transferring their germs into the wound. It is possible to get masks to prevent airborne infections but when I still worked in a hospital and was part of the influenza team we went for very specific mask fitting sessions. I've not checked but I suspect you can't just buy a mask "off the shelf" and expect it to protect you from infection.
IMHO you're better off practising proper hand washing technique to reduce your chances of infection.

[raz]

Ive taken advantage of this situation to get my older preps bk upto date and organised... I bought a bulk buy of masks a few years back in boxes of 100 masks for £5 each ive just sold 10 of the boxes for £50 each on ebay an they were still cheaper than most! Ive already ordered new masks that will be here for april the 3rd (if u dont mind waiting u can still find cheap boxes on amazon) and have managed to rotate and refresh a few of my other preps with change left over... it just highlights to me one of the main benefits of prepping regardless of scenario is not having to pay through the nose for items just because people know they can get away with it!

[Mooseshooz]

Probably worth noting that masks from screwfix, wickes etc only stop dust, not bacteria or viruses. Even the majority of pukka surgical masks are used to prevent the surgeon transferring their germs into the wound. It is possible to get masks to prevent airborne infections but when I still worked in a hospital and was part of the influenza team we went for very specific mask fitting sessions. I've not checked but I suspect you can't just buy a mask "off the shelf" and expect it to protect you from infection.
IMHO you're better off practising proper hand washing technique to reduce your chances of infection.

Thanks for the input. Agree they are probably more useful to stop you transmitting disease than catching it. Scares the crap out of people when you walk round Asda wearing one and a disposable suit as well

[jennyjj01]

Thanks for the input. Agree they are probably more useful to stop you transmitting disease than catching it. Scares the crap out of people when you walk round Asda wearing one and a disposable suit as well

LOL. Asda in a Hazmat suit.

Oh hum, local Wickes HAD 10 left for click and collect and for 3 quid each it seemed a reasonable investment. Plus 10 different and cheaper ones from Screwfix, the last stock within 50 miles!
TBH, I think this buying of masks is one of the more extreme preps I've done.... Which is saying something for me.

[jansman]

Of course,me being ever pragmatic...if it comes to wearing ' masks',which only serve as a barrier to water droplets anyway,then a simple large handkerchief or bandana will do the same.And you can boil wash'em!

[jenkinstein]

Can't help thinking the surgical or dust masks aren't going to do diddly squat... if you look at any official escorting "potential" patients they are in full hazmat kit. They know more than they are letting on.

Time to buy up all the GSR's and canisters maybe?

[Yorkshire Andy]

Time to buy up all the GSR's and canisters maybe?

Problem you have then is removing and decontamination of the mask / disposing of the filters