Reusing masks isn't typical and follows a change in guidance from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other regulators to cope with shortages in medical supplies prompted by the pandemic. The US isPhysicians are concerned the change doesn't reflectin The New England Journal of Medicine that indicate the novel coronavirus can survive on common surfaces for up to 72 hours.
"If I were to have to keep reusing a mask, at some point I might accidentally touch it. It might get onto my workstation. That is going to impose an infectious risk for me," added the doctor, who asked not to be identified because the hospital is instructing workers not to speak with the media. Business Insider verified the doctor's identity.
"I want to be really clear. I am concerned about the current supply of both N95 respirators and surgical masks in the US. And looking at our own supply, I am concerned," he said. "That's why we moved to some mitigation strategies to try to extend the life of and use of our personal protective equipment."