\n<\/p>\n
If the air quality reaches PSI 201 to 300 (very unhealthy), those with chronic lung or heart disease should avoid outdoor activities, while older adults, pregnant women and children should minimise outdoor activities, said Adj Assoc Prof Kee.<\/span><\/p>\n There is \u201ccurrently no approved certification standard for masks\u201d for children, said Dr Pang, so \u201cthe best form of protection for them is to stay indoors\u201d when the 24-hour PSI reaches hazardous levels or the 1-hour PM2.5 reading reaches high levels.<\/span><\/p>\n Surgical and fabric masks don’t offer the same protection from fine haze particles as an N95. You can breathe better in a regular mask but you\u2019re only filtering out larger irritant particles in the air, according to Adj Assoc Prof Kee. \u201cThey are not effective in filtering fine particles that are 2.5 micrometres or less in size present in haze.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Moreover, the regular masks \u201ctypically have a looser fit and can allow fine particles to enter around the edges\u201d, he said.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cCheck the expiration date indicated on the packaging,\u201d said Dr Pang. \u201cYou should not use masks past their expiration date. The effectiveness of the masks may degrade with time.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Also, look for visible defects such as shape deformities or tears. \u201cThe elastic bands should have good elasticity without snapping easily. The metal nose bridge should be in good condition. These are important for achieving a good mask seal,\u201d said Dr Pang.<\/span><\/p>\n Next, do a fit check by placing the N95 mask on your face. \u201cFeel for air leakage from the edges of the mask while breathing in and out,\u201d she said.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cIf you are still unsure of your N95 mask\u2019s condition, consider consulting with your doctor or nurse. They can assess the masks and advise on their usability.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n Check with your doctor for personalised advice on whether you should wear an N95 mask if you have difficulty breathing at rest or on exertion, said Adj Assoc Prof Kee. The same thing applies if you\u2019re an older adult, pregnant or suffer from severe lung or heart problems.<\/span><\/p>\n Other than that, your best alternative is to stay indoors during periods of very unhealthy or hazardous air quality, said Dr Pang.<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cIf you need to be outdoors, avoid strenuous activities or minimise the duration of the outdoor activity,\u201d she said. \u201cContinue with the treatment prescribed for your respiratory condition. If you still feel unwell or develop respiratory symptoms, you should seek medical attention promptly.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\nCAN I USE THE SURGICAL AND FABRIC MASKS I WORE DURING THE PANDEMIC?<\/span><\/h2>\n
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY STOCKPILE OF N95 MASKS IS STILL USABLE?<\/span><\/h2>\n
WHAT IF I HAVE RESPIRATORY ISSUES AND FIND IT HARD TO BREATHE WITH THE N95 MASK?<\/span><\/h2>\n