Unfortunately, because the challenges presented by COVID-19 are so unprecedented, we have not tested our PPE for efficacy against the coronavirus causing COVID-19, or when re-used or used for longer than the standard recommended time.
Per the FDA, “it is reasonable to believe that the authorized respirators may be effective in preventing HCP exposure to pathogenic biological airborne particulates” during shortages of existing, FDA-cleared PPE.
Per the
CDC, “the decision to implement policies that permit extended use or limited reuse of N95 respirators should be made by the professionals who manage the institution’s respiratory protection program. And, in consultation with their occupational health and infection control departments with input from the state/local public health departments.”