Free Republic
Browse · Search
News/Activism
Topics · Post Article

To: francisandbeans
...I wonder if dust masks can capture anthrax spores?

Not he usual sort of chief dust masks (they may catch a lot, but not all). Hepafilter N95 masks are probably sufficient- at least they are good for tuberculosis mycobacteria, which are roughly the same size. Also, the spores are probably NOT pure cultures- they are mixed with some carrier powder (Lactose? Cornstarch?)for disemination. The carrier powder is relatively easy to filter out.

BUT (and this is a BIG "but") unless you are wearing the mask at the time of exposure, and you carry out careful personal hygiene (especially handwashing!), there is really no point in bothering to buy any sort of mask.

41 posted on 10/12/2001 1:00:41 PM PDT by RANGERAIRBORNE
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 11 | View Replies ]


To: RANGERAIRBORNE
"CHEAP" dust masks, not "Chief". What was I thinking????
42 posted on 10/12/2001 1:01:39 PM PDT by RANGERAIRBORNE
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 41 | View Replies ]

Free Republic
Browse · Search
News/Activism
Topics · Post Article


FreeRepublic, LLC, PO BOX 9771, FRESNO, CA 93794
FreeRepublic.com is powered by software copyright 2000-2008 John Robinson