ABSTRACT
Introduction
One of the main issues in the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been the lack of uniformity of recommendations for the usage of face masks.
Areas covered
While Asian countries started using masks early during the epidemic, most Western countries were slow to do so. To avoid such situations, clear guidelines, need to be established, not only regarding the use of masks but also the type of mask to suit different situations. In this article, we will examine the types of masks and review the recommendations for their use based on the available evidence for each type of mask.
Expert opinion
We explore future needs in research-related mask use in COVID-19 pandemic, improvements to be made in mask design, adopting guidelines for the use of masks and the psycho-social aspects of widespread and prolonged mask use.
Article highlights
There has been the lack of uniformity of recommendations for the usage of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic
Recommendations for the use of various type of masks can be made based on the available evidence for each type of mask
N95 for aerosol-generating procedures
Surgical masks for HCW, patients, and carers of patients
Cloth masks for the general public when going out
Declaration of interest
The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.
Reviewer disclosures
Peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.