Lake Atitlan Buying Medical Masks

Lake Atitlan Buying Medical Masks. In the village of Panajachel and others around Lake Atitlan, you will find street vendors, selling what appears to be protective Medical Masks thinking they will provide the protection for you from the Coronavirus Covid-19. THEY DO NOT PROVIDE ANY PROTECTION.

The Masks found on the streets of Lake Atitlan villages are not manufactured correctly; most are made out of Polyester, not Cotton. Masks must be two-ply, have a back, and front clearly identified. Cotton masks washed and sanitized for future use.

The photos provided show the difference between a proper mask and one that will not provide any protection.

The Medical Masks show here sold by Street Vendors provide no protection from Covid-19.

Lake Atitlan Buying Medical Masks proper mask, two-ply, with a front and backside.

Surgical Masks (Face Masks)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend that people who are well wearing a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including coronavirus (COVID-19).

A surgical mask is a loose-fitting, disposable device that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment. Surgical masks are regulated under 21 CFR 878.4040.

Surgical masks are not to be shared and maybe labeled as surgical, isolation, dental, or medical procedure masks. They may come with or without a face shield. These are often referred to as facemasks, although not all face masks are regulated as surgical masks.

Please take a few minutes and read how Medical Masks are to be used.

https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/personal-protective-equipment-infection-control/n95-respirators-and-surgical-masks-face-masks