Call for Stronger Protection
A group of international experts is urging the World Health Organization (WHO) to revise its guidelines on protective equipment for healthcare workers. In a letter addressed to WHO Director‑General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, they argued that surgical face masks provide inadequate protection against airborne pathogens, including flu‑like illnesses and Covid‑19, and should be replaced by respirator‑level masks in clinical practice.
Criticism of Surgical Masks
The experts stated that there is “no rational justification remaining for prioritising or using” surgical masks, which remain ubiquitous in hospitals and clinics worldwide. They emphasized that the masks fail to adequately filter airborne particles, leaving healthcare workers vulnerable. They further noted that allowing medical staff to wear no face covering at all is indefensible given the risks of transmission in patient‑facing environments.
Pandemic Lessons
During the height of the Covid‑19 pandemic, an estimated 129 billion disposable face masks were used globally each month, with surgical masks being the most widely available and recommended by health authorities. However, as evidence accumulated, many countries shifted toward recommending respirators—such as FFP2/3 masks in the UK and N95 masks in the US—as more effective options for preventing infection.
Proposed Standard Practice
The experts argue that respirators designed to filter tiny airborne particles should become standard practice for all medical interactions. They contend that such a shift would:
- Reduce infections among patients and healthcare professionals.
- Lower rates of sickness, absenteeism, and burnout in the health workforce.
- Strengthen resilience in healthcare systems during future outbreaks.
Outlook
The proposals highlight a growing consensus that respirator‑level protection is essential in clinical settings, especially when dealing with airborne pathogens. If adopted, the recommendations could reshape infection‑control protocols worldwide, ensuring that healthcare workers are better protected and patients receive safer care.