Brief

Research snapshot: Which facemasks are best to protect from breathing volcanic ash?

author(s) Horwell, C.
from UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
permalink open
themes
regions
  • Central America
  • Latin America and the Caribbean
  • Americas
  • World
  • Eastern Asia
  • Asia
  • South-Eastern Asia
citation

Horwell, C. (2020) Research snapshot: Which facemasks are best to protect from breathing volcanic ash? Elhra

Publications and datasets provided via GARDIAN

Abstract

This document provides a 2-page summary of the research undertaken as part of the Research for Health in Humanitarian Crises (R2HC) Programme funded study Respiratory Health Interventions in Volcanic Eruption Crises. Governmental and humanitarian agencies recommend and distribute a variety of facemasks, most commonly surgical masks, in responses to volcanic risk. However, this research study found these masks are not always effective at protecting people from inhaling volcanic ash. The study provides a new evidence-base and practical guidance to inform humanitarian interventions. This Snapshot summarises: Background to the research and how the research was conducted, Key findings, Implications for humanitarian practitioners and policymakers, Recommendations, Further reading

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