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In a recent op-ed published in the TIME, <keyword id="19918823" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="OpenAI" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="OpenAI" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="OpenAI">OpenAI</keyword> CEO <keyword id="19918827" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sam-Altman" source="keywords">Sam Altman</keyword> and <keyword id="22347613" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Thrive-Global" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Thrive Global" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Thrive Global">Thrive Global</keyword>’s <keyword id="22347614" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Arianna-Huffington" source="keywords">Arianna Huffington</keyword> pose as champions of affordable healthcare. Soft-launching the new company <keyword id="22347612" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Thrive-AI-Health" source="keywords">Thrive AI Health</keyword> through the article, the duo speak of using <keyword id="19904566" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="artificial-intelligence" source="keywords">artificial intelligence</keyword> to help people take charge of their well-being and make expert health advice accessible to all. Most notably, they suggest that AI could help improve “both our health spans and our lifespans”. Thrive AI Health will primarily focus on promoting healthy behaviour, like the five foundational behaviours Sam himself swears by: getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, spending time in nature and meditating. Furthermore, this <keyword id="22347611" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="AI-health-coach" source="keywords">AI health coach</keyword> wouldn't just tell you to eat better or exercise more, but promises to take your preferences, your schedule and your health data into account. OpenAI’s Whoop coach already exists while Google and Apple are also planning to roll out similar tools soon. Related: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/ai-can-identify-clinically-anxious-youth-based-on-brain-structure-study/articleshow/108613080.cms">AI can identify clinically anxious youth based on brain structure: Study</a> According to the TIME article, the AI will be trained on the “best peer-reviewed science”. And here’s where it starts to get tricky. Both peer-reviewed and ‘under-review’ scientific literature consists of inaccurate and confusing interpretations when it comes to human health. Being an ever-evolving field of academia, the studies coming out in this domain have always been subjected to cherry-picking of data and misinterpreting the findings. So, will AI be able to navigate this challenge, especially considering the recent episodes of AI hallucinations even among the most advanced large language models? AI definitely holds promise to make affordable healthcare a reality at warp speed, but how could we make it safe if the training data itself is ambiguous? <h2>Dealing with <keyword id="18230708" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="AI-hallucination" source="Orion">AI hallucination</keyword> </h2>It’ll be a hot while before we purge our minds of the memory of a Google AI search result stating that it was perfectly normal for 5-10 cockroaches to crawl into your penis hole and that this was how they got the name “cock” roach. So forgive us if we don’t jump with joy at the thought of relying on technology trained using LLMs for any sort of health advice. <div type="twitter" handle="JeremiahDJohns" handlename="JeremiahDJohns" favoritecount="0" retweetcount="0" id="1794543007129387208"></div>We asked Dr Marcus Ranney — Longevity Physician, Founder of <keyword id="10673536" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="human-edge" source="Orion">Human Edge</keyword> and formerly General Manager with Thrive Global — what he thought about the limitations of using LLM-trained AI for healthcare. <a href="https://ever.humanedge.co/">Human Edge</a>, which provides wellness and fitness services, also employs generative AI tools. And Dr Ranney acknowledged that they had to deal with their share of AI hallucinations and inaccuracies. To tackle this little problem, Human Edge was taking the “man-in-the-middle” approach during training. Here, an actual healthcare professional would intercept the conversation between the AI and the user, and select the right answer from the options suggested by the tool. The other problem is that Thrive AI Health’s responses will obviously depend on the user’s input and what medical data they choose to share about themselves. While Altman and Huffington are thankfully playing it safe and only intend for this app to start off with generalised (and mostly harmless) tips, we do wonder if it could land some people in a soup simply because they forgot to share something or thought it inconsequential. <h2>Impact on doctors</h2>A common misconception that many harbour is that such healthcare tools could replace healthcare providers. We can argue this point by saying that AI is only supposed to support the healthcare system and not uproot it. But in a country like India, where we tend to rely on the pharmacist’s advice instead of a doctor’s appointment to save time and money, over-reliance on AI healthcare tools could be a real problem. However, Dr Ranney stresses on how this could serve as the first tier of health advice. It would certainly also help reduce the burden of overworked doctors who are also busy battling the surge of misinformation on the internet — cue the tiff between Indian actress <keyword id="689826" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="samantha-ruth-prabhu" source="Orion">Samantha Ruth Prabhu</keyword> and The Liver Doc. Read: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/health/news/samantha-ruth-prabhu-faces-heavy-backlash-after-recommending-hydrogen-peroxide-inhalation-to-cure-viral-fever/articleshow/111515126.cms">Samantha Ruth Prabhu faces heavy backlash after recommending hydrogen peroxide inhalation to cure viral fever</a> When someone as influential as the actress shares the “benefits” of inhaling hydrogen peroxide with her millions of followers, it is bound to make waves, no matter how dubious the source of the information may be. Talking about the barrage of confounding medical advice bandied on social media and its many dangers, the Human Edge CEO insists that a reliable AI health coach could actually be a much better source of information. <h2>Could an AI health coach lead to data breaching issues?</h2>Depending on how much you engage with it, this health coach will likely know every tiny detail about you — from how many minutes you spend on your porcelain throne every morning to how many times you stayed up past your bedtime that week. And let’s face it, not all of us are completely okay with this sacred information being made available to others. Altman and Huffington do seem to be particular about ensuring “robust privacy and security safeguards”, but the technology will also rely on potentially several billion data points — data from users. So the chances of a data breach, no matter how miniscule, do exist. As Dr Ranney said, we’re going to need a lot of regulation to prevent something like this. That being said, if Thrive’s AI health coach delivers on its promises, it’s going to be a huge deal that revolutionises healthcare worldwide. While Dr Ranney did share his viewpoints from an industry perspective, he says he’s very excited about Thrive AI Health — and frankly, so are we (even if it didn't seem like it).

OpenAI & Thrive-backed “hyper-personalised” AI health coach is in the works. Should you be excited or worried?

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Reduce the swelling and pain from a <keyword id="12522098" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="sore-throat" source="Orion">sore throat</keyword> by gargling with warm saltwater.</li><li>Also, drink plenty of water to lubricate your throat and prevent it from getting dry and irritated.</li><li>Chamomile tea with honey in it can also provide relief.</li></ul>About 13 million people visit the doctor each year with a sore throat. <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/community/for-patients/common-illnesses/sore-throat.html#causes" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Roughly one in ten</a> cases of sore throat are caused by a bacterial infection, like strep throat, which will need to be treated with <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-antibiotics-work" target="_blank" rel="noopener">antibiotics</a>. But most of the time, a sore throat is caused by a virus like the <keyword id="12048786" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="flu" source="Orion">flu</keyword> or the <a href="https://www.insider.com/common-cold-symptoms-treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener">common cold</a> and there is no cure except to wait for it to pass.Here are five simple remedies you can use to help soothe your sore throat while waiting for your symptoms to clear up.<h2>1. Gargle with saltwater</h2>Gargling with salt water is one effective way to<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sore-throat/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351640" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> soothe a painful sore throat</a>.The<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sore-throat/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351640" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Mayo Clinic</a> recommends mixing ½ teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water and gargling it in the back of your throat. When treating kids, it's best to wait until they reach age 6 to make sure they are able to spit out the mixture and don't accidentally swallow it.There is not much research on whether saltwater gargles can actually kill germs in the throat, however, the salt can help <a href="https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=uh2986" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reduce swelling and pain</a>. And one <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3793484/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2013 study</a> found that gargling salt water can help prevent respiratory infections.<h2>2. Take pain relievers</h2>Pain-relieving medications like<a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/acetaminophen-vs-ibuprofen-which-works-better/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> acetaminophen and ibuprofen</a> can help ease the pain and swelling that come with a sore throat.This is because pain relievers stop your body from producing inflammatory agents called prostaglandins, says<a href="https://www.pennmedicine.org/providers/profile/jonathan-m-lee" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Jonathan M. Lee, MD</a>, a professor of head and neck surgery at the University of Pennsylvania.If you are caring for a child 6 months old or younger, experts recommend<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/in-depth/cold-remedies/art-20046403" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> avoiding ibuprofen and sticking to acetaminophen</a>, the active ingredient in Tylenol.<h2>3. Stay hydrated</h2>Another vital step to treating a sore throat is to <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-much-water-are-you-supposed-to-drink-a-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">drink as many fluids</a> as possible.Related Article Module: The many different ingredients in tea that help boost immunity"When you are sick you are more likely to become dehydrated," says Lee. This is because your body produces more mucus and fevers may cause you to sweat, both of which drain water from your body.Staying hydrated can help your body <a href="https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/mouth/dry-mouth" target="_blank" rel="noopener">produce more saliva</a>, which can lubricate your throat and keep it from getting dry and irritated."Drinking plenty of fluids, warm or <keyword id="6363126" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="cold" source="Orion">cold</keyword>, ensures your body can carry out all its functions effectively," Lee saysIn particular, drinking warm fluids can help<a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/sore-throat-remedies-that-actually-work/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> soothe the back of your throat and cut down on coughing</a>. Some good options for warm liquids are broth and non-caffeinated herbal tea, Lee says.Cold liquids, like popsicles and ice chips are also helpful, says Lee, as they can temporarily numb any sharp pain in your throat. <h2>4. Try some honey</h2>Adding honey to tea can <a href="https://www.insider.com/benefits-of-honey" target="_blank" rel="noopener">provide extra relief</a> for a sore throat.A<a href="https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/7934/f6b4b21c993a7ec37a36db36e63deeb66b45.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> 2017 study</a> found that people who swallowed a tablespoon of honey twice a day along with their usual sore throat treatments had a faster recovery and fewer symptoms.You may want to mix chamomile tea with honey, as chamomile has also been shown to<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> soothe sore throats</a>.<h2>5. Breathe in humidity</h2>Breathing in dry air can<a href="https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2018/february/sore-throat" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> irritate your throat</a> and make a sore throat feel even worse. If you are sick with a sore throat, it can help to run a humidifier in your home to help keep the air moist.Related Article Module: Steam inhalation: How to use fresh herbs to make your own home remedy for congestion reliefFor extra soothing relief, you can also try adding<a href="https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2018/february/sore-throat" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> a tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide or vapor rub</a> to the water in your humidifier. Hydrogen peroxide can help <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/9780470682531.pat0885" target="_blank" rel="noopener">fight off bacteria</a> and vapor rubs generally contain menthol, which can have a <a href="https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/d03665a1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cooling and soothing effect</a> on your throat.If you don't have a humidifier, you can also run the shower with hot water to fill your bathroom with steam.<a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sore-throat/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351640" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Sitting in steam for a few minutes</a> can help <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/sore-throat-remedies-that-actually-work/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">loosen mucus and soothe pain in your throat.</a><h2>When to see your doctor</h2>There are a few telltale signs to look for to determine if something more serious is going on."If your throat pain is severe, lasts longer than a week, or is associated with high fever, swallowing or breathing problems, please consult your doctor," Lee says.<h2>Insider's takeaway</h2>There are many things that can cause a sore throat. But there are also many ways to soothe the pain like drinking warm fluids and gargling with saltwater. If you think you have a bacterial infection like strep throat, it's important to see a doctor to get antibiotics. But if you have a viral infection like a <a href="https://www.insider.com/common-cold" target="_blank" rel="noopener">common cold</a> or the <a href="https://www.insider.com/flu-symptoms" target="_blank" rel="noopener">flu</a>, the best option is to wait it out at home by taking pain relievers, using soothing methods, and drinking plenty of fluids.<a data-type="5fa18a7af348c364565491cc">The 6 best drinks to soothe a sore throat and boost your immune system</a><a data-type="5f11f1d6aee6a835fb69bc85">How to treat strep throat with antibiotics and home remedies</a><a data-type="5e823f572ff8394f5056f5b2">How to tell if you have a fever without a thermometer</a><a data-type="5dcd953f79d7570dfd04c422">Does vitamin C help with a cold? Yes, but it won't help prevent it</a>

5 ways to soothe a sore throat whether it's from strep, a cold, or something else

<ul class="summary-list"><li>To use a nebulizer involves multiple steps that include pouring the medicine into the medicine cup and sitting up straight to inhale.</li><li>A nebulizer is a drug delivery device that turns liquid medications into an inhalable vapor.</li><li>It is used to treat respiratory conditions like <keyword id="6465125" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="asthma">asthma</keyword>, COPD, cystic fibrosis, and bronchiectasis.</li><li>This article was <a href="https://www.insider.com/insider-medical-review-board" target="_blank" rel="noopener">medically reviewed</a> by <a href="https://www.providence.org/doctors/profile/299517-osita-innocent-onugha" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Osita Onugha</a>, MD, thoracic surgeon and assistant professor of thoracic surgical oncology at John Wayne Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John's <keyword id="6354750" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="health">Health</keyword> Center in Santa Monica, California.</li></ul>Various lung conditions make it harder for people to breathe, resulting in shortness of breath, wheezing, and chronic coughing. There are a variety of treatments available to help patients breathe easier and reduce the symptoms related to their condition.A nebulizer is one tool that is used for people with a variety of respiratory conditions including <a href="https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma/asthma-symptoms-causes-risk-factors" target="_blank" rel="noopener">asthma</a>, <a href="https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd" target="_blank" rel="noopener">COPD</a> (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), <a href="https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/cystic-fibrosis" target="_blank" rel="noopener">cystic fibrosis</a>, and <a href="https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/bronchiectasis/symptoms-diagnosis" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bronchiectasis</a>. In this article, we discuss how a nebulizer works, who it can benefit, and how to use one.<h2>What is a nebulizer?</h2>A nebulizer is a drug delivery device that turns liquid medications into a mist that can be inhaled.Like inhalers, nebulizers are designed to help people with respiratory conditions breathe more easily. Both inhalers and nebulizers use the same medication, just administered differently. The main difference between the two is that inhalers are more portable and can be taken on-the-go.Nebulizers are machines that are generally heavier and require a power source. Portable battery-operated ones are available, but not as common. Moreover, a nebulizer comes with multiple components:<ul><li>The base</li><li>The air compressor</li><li>A container or medicine cup </li><li>Tubing that the mist travels through</li><li>A mouthpiece or mask </li></ul><h2>Who should use a nebulizer</h2>Although a nebulizer may seem complicated, they are actually pretty user-friendly. "Nebulizers are often easier to use for children or for patients who have difficulty following the directions for inhalers, which requires some coordination of breathing, such as breathing deeply in or out," says <a href="https://www.nyp.org/transplant/physician/lorishah" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lori Shah, MD</a>, transplant pulmonologist with New York-Presbyterian and Columbia University Medical Center.They are also great for patients with constant coughs who find it difficult to follow deep breathing instructions that go along with inhalers. Shah says that with nebulizers, you just have to sit with the mouthpiece or mask and breathe in and out slowly, usually for about <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000006.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10 to 15 minutes</a>.People who use nebulizers may do so for up to three to four times a day, according to the <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682145.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US National Library of Medicine.</a> People may also have inhalers, in addition to a nebulizer, to take with them as a portable option if they need relief on the go. Generally, nebulizers and their medications are prescribed by a doctor. And nebulizers come in <a href="https://www.medicalexpo.com/medical-manufacturer/nebulizer-1964.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">various shapes and sizes</a>, so you should check to make sure you have the right medication for the proper nebulizer.<h2>How to use a nebulizer</h2>Here's a step-by-step guide for how to use a nebulizer, according to Shah:<ol><li>Thoroughly wash and dry your hands to avoid getting germs on the machine.</li><li>Place the nebulizer on a flat surface and plug it in.</li><li>Pour your medicine into the medicine cup or medicine holding chamber.</li><li>Connect the nebulizer tubing from the air compressor (the base of the machine) to the liquid medicine cup. </li><li>Attach the mouthpiece or mask to the medicine cup.</li><li>Turn the machine on.</li><li>Sit up straight and place the mask on your face or place the mouthpiece between your teeth, sealing your lips around it. You will feel the air flowing out.</li><li>Take slow, deep breaths until the medicine is gone.</li><li>Remove the mask or mouthpiece.</li><li>Turn off the nebulizer.</li><li>Clean the machine.</li></ol>It can take some time to get familiar with using the nebulizer, but with time, you'll get in the swing of it and it will become simpler, says Shah.<h2>How to clean a nebulizer</h2>It's important to <a href="https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd/patient-resources-and-videos/how-to-clean-a-nebulizer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">keep the nebulizer clean</a> by washing the mask or mouthpiece and the medicine cup after each use. You should hand wash each component with warm soapy water and then let them air dry. You can also use a <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/4254-home-nebulizer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">mild detergent</a>. On top of this, it's necessary to do a more thorough cleaning weekly to disinfect the nebulizer. Shah recommends soaking each piece in a solution that is equal parts water and white vinegar for 30 minutes. Then, rinse them with warm water and let it all air dry. According to <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/4254-home-nebulizer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cleveland Clinic</a>, alternate ways to disinfect the machine would be to either soak the parts for five minutes in 70% isopropyl alcohol or soak them for thirty minutes in 3% hydrogen peroxide. This will help prevent bacteria from growing in and on the nebulizer. When the nebulizer isn't in use, Shah says to store it in a cool, dry area in your home.<h2 id="related-articles-from-health-reference:">Related articles from <a href="https://www.insider.com/health-reference" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Health Reference</a>:</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/am-i-having-an-asthma-attack" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Am I having an asthma attack? How to tell and what to do about it</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-use-an-inhaler" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How to use an inhaler: A step-by-step guide to use and care</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/is-asthma-genetic" target="_blank" rel="noopener">There is a strong genetic component to asthma, but it's not the only risk factor</a></li></ul>

A nebulizer is a device used to treat conditions like asthma — here's how to use one

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Unlike cloth face <keyword id="9418" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="masks">masks</keyword>, disposable masks like <keyword id="46573" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Surgical-masks">surgical masks</keyword> and <keyword id="1101524" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="N95">N95</keyword> respirators should be thrown out after one use. </li><li>As a last-resort measure in emergency situations, it is possible to extend the life of a disposable <keyword id="72066" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="face-mask">face mask</keyword> if extreme care is taken. </li><li>If you use a reusable mask, make sure to wash it once a day and consider a double-mask with two-to three layers of fabric, for added protection.</li></ul>Whether or not you should reuse a face mask depends on the type of mask. Can you reuse a breathable, washable cloth mask? Yes, no problem. Just follow these CDC guidelines on <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-to-wash-cloth-face-coverings.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">how to wash a cloth mask</a>.But what about a disposable mask, like medical-grade surgical masks and N95 respirators? The short answer: You should not reuse disposable masks per <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/ppe-strategy/face-masks.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CDC</a> and <a href="https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/when-and-how-to-use-masks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">WHO advice</a>.However, if we learned anything from the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-factories-cant-keep-up-demand-for-face-masks-coronavirus-2020-4" target="_blank" rel="noopener">dire mask shortage</a> from early in the COVID-19 pandemic, it is possible. Here's what you need to know. <h2>Why N95 and surgical masks should not be reused </h2>The two most common types of disposable masks - medical-grade surgical masks and N95 respirators - also happen to be the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-masks-for-coronavirus-chart-2020-9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">most effective type of mask in preventing infection</a>, which explains why the CDC recommends they be reserved for medical and frontline workers. However, these masks are most effective during first-time use, which is why you should not reuse them. If reused, these masks can actually increase your risk of infection because of how they work:<ul><li>Surgical masks are loose-fitting face coverings that act as barriers to protect the mouth and nose from potential contaminants, typically used by medical professionals as personal protective equipment (PPE). They can also be used by sick patients to minimize the spread of disease from large-particle droplets that are coughed and breathed out.</li><li>N95 respirators are tight-fitting masks that <a href="https://www.insider.com/how-respirators-work" target="_blank" rel="noopener">filter out at least 95% of the particles</a> in the air in order to minimize the wearer's exposure to viruses and bacteria. They're worn by healthcare workers and first responders who are caring for the sick and don't want to get infected. </li></ul>Important: The World <keyword id="6354750" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="health">Health</keyword> Organization (WHO)<a href="https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/when-and-how-to-use-masks" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> recommends</a> removing a mask once it is damp from your breath, and never reusing a single-use mask.Because these masks act as a physical barrier against respiratory droplets and germs, they can also transfer those particles onto other surfaces. This makes disposable masks a potential hazard in spreading and transmitting disease if reused or not properly discarded.<h2>Guidelines for reusing disposable masks in emergency situations</h2>You should avoid reusing disposable masks as much as possible. However, if you're in an emergency situation, here's what you can do to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/hcwcontrols/recommendedguidanceextuse.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">minimize infection: </a><ul><li>Be careful when taking the mask off. If you need to adjust your mask, make sure you wash your hands before you do or use a hand sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol in it. When taking your mask off, make sure to do so by the straps and avoid touching the actual mask directly. </li><li>Make sure you're storing your mask in a clean, breathable area. Avoid putting your mask on dirty surfaces, including inside your purse, on an uncleaned surface, or holding it in your hand. When not in use, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/doctors-new-york-treating-coronavirus-patients-reuse-n95-masks-2020-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the mask should be stored in a breathable container,</a> like a paper bag or open tupperware container. Plastic bags or<a href="https://www.floyd.org/about-floyd/covid-19/Pages/caring-for-mask.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> other storage containers</a> that seal off air completely should not be used. </li><li>Only reuse your mask. A surgical mask or N95 respirator should only be reused by the same person, never shared between others.</li><li>Extended use is better than reuse. It's better to leave a respirator on for the whole shift rather than taking it on and off. This minimizes contact between your hands, the mask, and other surfaces thereby reducing the risk of spreading infectious particles. The CDC guidelines say that there's no way to predict a safe number of reuses, so medical professionals should use their judgement.</li><li>If you absolutely have to reuse a disposable mask, sanitize the mask as much as you can first. A<a href="https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.04.11.20062018v1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> 2020 study</a> by the NIH found that you can sanitize N95 masks using UV rays (a form of light) and vaporized hydrogen peroxide to effectively disinfect a mask. As a rule of thumb, you should avoid using a liquid disinfectant as it could cause harm if you inhale it.</li></ul>Important: While masks can protect against airborne illnesses, you should still be cautious of touching surfaces that may contain traces of bacteria or viruses. As touching an infected surface and then your face (even with a mask on) can increase your risk of infectionSurgical masks and respirators<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-do-n95-face-masks-expire-still-work-2020-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> don't suddenly expire</a>, although their fibers and elastics bands - which are important for getting a snug fit - can deteriorate over time. <a href="https://www.burnettmedicalcenter.com/staff/bio.php?doc_id=45943" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hans Rechsteiner,</a> MD, a general surgeon at Burnett Medical Center estimates that masks are at their best within five years of manufacture, although an older mask is certainly better than nothing. You should also throw out masks (reusable or disposable) that have any holes or damage that could compromise their effectiveness. Soiled masks should also be thrown out. <h2>What masks can I reuse?</h2>If you can <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-clean-sanitize-face-mask" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wash a mask</a> with water and soap frequently without damaging it, you can reuse it. This includes store-bought cloth masks and homemade masks. It's worth noting that if you are making your own mask, the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-to-make-cloth-face-covering.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CDC's guidelines </a>urge you to make sure the mask fits snuggly on the face and that it fully covers your mouth and nose.What the research says: A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24229526/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2013 study</a> found that homemade masks made from cotton t-shirts are only about one-third as effective as surgical masks in preventing infection, but they still "significantly reduce" the amount of germs being spread by the wearer. Moreover, a <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0240285#sec001" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2020 analysis</a> found that a combination of two or more materials increased the effectiveness of homemade masks. For example, the analysis found that the combination of a tea towel and fleece jacket material had similar efficacy to that of a double-layer medical mask. <h2>General tips for proper mask usage</h2><ul><ul><li>Always wash your hands before handling the mask: Use a hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol or soap and warm water to wash your hands before removing or adjusting your mask. </li><li>Whether reusable or disposable, do not touch the mask: Use strings, loops, or straps that keep your mask fastened to your ears/head to remove the mask. </li><li>Designate a clean space to keep your masks when not in use: It's important to think about storing your masks in a sanitized, breathable environment. This applies at home and on-the-go. </li><li>Dispose of surgical and N95 masks after one use: If a surgical mask is damp, that's generally an indication you should switch it out for a new one. </li><li>For cloth masks, aim to wash it after every use: Wash your mask on high heat using soap and water. According to WHO,<a href="https://www.who.int/csr/sars/survival_2003_05_04/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> heat of 133°F can kill</a> the <keyword id="1754604" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="coronavirus">coronavirus</keyword>. If your mask has a filter, make sure to remove it before washing and replace it with a new one after.</li><li>When disposing of your mask, cut off the strings: Early research indicates that disposable masks may pose<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7381927/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> an environmental issue.</a> Additionally, some <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-essex-53474772" target="_blank" rel="noopener">anecdotal reports </a>have shown that animals like birds can get trapped in or choke on surgical masks. For this reason, cutting off the strings of the mask before disposing of them reduces the risk of animal harm. </li><li>Double-masking can provide extra protection: In order to provide an extra layer of protection with masks, you can use three layers of cloth to c<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/fauci-wearing-2-masks-more-effective-at-stopping-covid-19-2021-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reate a more secure barrier</a>.This could look like a cloth mask and a surgical mask, or a cloth mask that has three layers sewn in. </li></ul></ul><h1>Insider's takeaway</h1>Wearing a mask is necessary to reduce exposure to and infection from air-borne diseases like COVID-19. However, if not worn properly, they won't be effective. Surgical masks and N95 masks are disposable medical grade masks that are the most effective in keeping out viruses and bacteria. They should be thrown out after one use and reserved for healthcare workers. Important: The coronavirus pandemic is an evolving situation. For the most up-to-date guidelines on masks for the general public, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-guidance.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">consult the CDC</a>. Cloth masks and other homemade masks, while not as effective as medical masks, can be washed and reused. Make sure to wash them after each use with high heat and soap, and remove any filters while replacing them with new ones. If daily washing doesn't fit in your schedule, rotate between multiple masks in between wash cycles. "If you want to be extra safe, use three masks and rotate them daily, letting them sit out in a well-ventilated area to dry in the meantime so that the viruses die," Rechsteiner, says. "Because of severe shortages in some areas I believe that this is a safe and acceptable practice."<h1>Related stories about staying germ-free:</h1><ul><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/how-respirators-work">How respirators work, and who needs to wear a face mask</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/how-do-viruses-spread" target="_blank" rel="noopener">How do viruses spread and how to protect yourself against infection</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/does-copper-kill-germs-and-viruses">Does copper kill germs? Yes, it's effective against COVID-19 within 4 hours</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/what-temperature-kills-germs">What temperature kills germs? How to use heat properly to get rid of bacteria and viruses</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/how-to-boost-immune-system">How to boost your immune system through diet and lifestyle changes</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/does-uv-light-kill-germs">Does UV light kill germs? Getting an at-home sanitizer may be worth it</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/does-alcohol-kill-germs">Does alcohol kill germs? Yes, as long as the solution is strong enough</a></li></ul>

Can you reuse a face mask? It won't be as effective if you do

Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images Adrienne Marchetti, executive director of the <keyword id="4553129" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="pawtucket">Pawtucket</keyword> Soup Kitchen, wipes down the tables inside the dining room where meals are served on March 2, 2020. <ul class="summary-list"><li>The new <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/china-virus-everything-we-know-deadly-2019-ncov-wuhan-spread-2020-1">coronavirus</a> is primarily a respiratory illness, and it typically spreads via airborne droplets from an infected patient's coughs or sneezes.</li><li>Viral particles can survive for a time on surfaces, but the coronavirus' lifespan on surfaces depends on various factors, like temperature and humidity.</li><li>Some human coronaviruses, like SARS, can last for days on surfaces. But one expert says the new coronavirus is more likely to last "hours to a day or so."</li><li>Here are some best practices for disinfecting surfaces.</li><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/?hprecirc-bullet">Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories</a>.</li></ul>The new <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/china-virus-everything-we-know-deadly-2019-ncov-wuhan-spread-2020-1">coronavirus</a> is a respiratory illness, which means it typically spreads via <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/transmission.html">airborne droplets</a>. When an infected person coughs or sneezes, droplets carrying viral particles can land on someone else's nose or mouth or get inhaled. But a person can also get the new coronavirus if they touch a surface or object that has viral particles on it then touch their mouth, nose, or eyes, according to the CDC. The exact lifespan of the virus on a surface - a subway pole, stairwell banister, or even money - depends on many factors, including the surrounding temperature, humidity, and type of surface. But the rough range is "likely hours to a day or so," Rachel Graham, an epidemiologist at the <keyword id="390129" type="LOCATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="University-of-North-Carolina">University of North Carolina</keyword>, told Business Insider. <h2>How long the coronavirus survives on surfaces </h2>A <a href="https://www.journalofhospitalinfection.com/article/S0195-6701(20)30046-3/fulltext">study</a> published this week in the Journal of Hospital Infection looked at the lifespans of other coronaviruses found in humans on various surfaces. The SARS coronavirus - at a temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) - lasts for two days on steel; four days on wood and glass; and five days on metal, plastic, and ceramics. (The researchers also found that one strain of SARS lasted up to nine days on a plastic surface at room temperature.) SARS only survives between two and eight hours on aluminum, and less than eight hours on latex. According to Graham, these findings likely apply to the new coronavirus, since smooth, nonporous surfaces like doorknobs and tabletops are better at carrying viruses in general. Porous surfaces - like money, hair, and fabric - do not allow viruses to survive as long because the minute spaces or holes in those materials can trap the microbe and prevent its transfer, Graham said. "Coins will transmit virus better than cash, but this shouldn't be a huge concern," she said. "Basic rule of thumb should be to consider money dirty anyway, because it is. It goes through too many hands not to be." Marco Di Lauro/Getty A man holds coins collected from the Trevi Fountain in Rome, Italy. Your smartphone, with all its glass and aluminum, can also carry viral particles. Graham said she recommends disinfecting <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-how-to-clean-iphone-android-phone-without-damaging-screen-2020-3">your phone</a>, "particularly if it travels to the bathroom with you." <h2>The surrounding temperature makes a big difference</h2>The recent study also revealed that spikes in temperature make a difference in the lifespans of coronaviruses. An 18-degree Fahrenheit jump, from 68 degrees to 86 degrees, decreased how long SARS lasted on steel surfaces by at least half. That's because some coronaviruses, including this new one, have a viral envelope: <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=influenza+capsid&amp;tbm=isch&amp;source=iu&amp;ictx=1&amp;fir=zHCsg_r0Ce-S6M%253A%252CTOUWeLq_3h8_PM%252C_&amp;vet=1&amp;usg=AI4_-kTWW3uGe_zfOpiJws9aYFD3NltH5A&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiNs87Xt9HlAhXCmuAKHY2cAVQQ9QEwAHoECAMQAw#imgrc=-jUgmbryyHWpKM:&amp;vet=1">a fat-layer</a> that protects viral particles when traveling from person-to-person in the air. That sheath can dry out however, which kills the virus. So higher humidity, moderate temperature, low wind, and a solid surface are all good for a coronavirus' survival, Graham said. <a href="https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/volunteer-offers-hand-sanitizer-to-passengers-in-light-of-a-news-photo/1198631350?adppopup=true">Willie Siau/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images</a> A volunteer offers hand sanitizer to passengers who recently arrived in Hong Kong from mainland China after measuring their temperatures, February 4, 2020. This also explains why respiratory viruses are typically <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-outbreak-seasonality-not-disappear-2020-2">seasonal</a>: Cooler temperatures help harden the protective gel-like coating that surrounds the particles. <h2>How to disinfect surfaces</h2>The authors of the recent study noted that human coronaviruses could be "efficiently inactivated" on surfaces within one minute if they're cleaned with solutions containing 62%-71% ethanol alcohol, 0.5% hydrogen peroxide, or 0.1% sodium hypochlorite. "We expect a similar effect against the SARS-CoV-2," they added. (SARS-CoV-2 is the official scientific name of the virus.) WANA (West Asia <keyword id="6355005" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="news">News</keyword> Agency) via Reuters A member of the medical team sprays disinfectant to sanitize bathrooms in Imam Reza's holy shrine, following the coronavirus outbreak, in Mashhad, Iran on February 27, 2020. Graham said these surface disinfectants could even work within 15 seconds. But she added, "to get the kill rates advertised on the packaging, though, that usually involves waiting for several minutes - between five minutes and six minutes." That duration is probably only essential, however, if you're cleaning a surface in an area inhabited by someone infected. Graham said the important thing when disinfecting a surface is getting the potential infectious dose of the virus below a level that will cause disease. "Most commercial products labeled 'disinfectants' talk about a 99.9% kill rate," she said - that's certainly below the threshold that would make people ill, she added. But alcohol-based hand sanitizer, on the other hand, is not ideal for disinfecting hard surfaces because the alcohol content is not high enough. REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo Hand sanitizer is meant to lower how much of the infection is on your hands "without stripping your skin of all its oils and moisture," she said. "Surface disinfectants - like Lysol, bleach - are better for surfaces." <h2>Stop touching your face, and wash your hands</h2>Graham emphasized the importance of washing your hands and not touching your face - those are the best ways to minimize your chances of picking up the coronavirus from surfaces. The recent study concluded that if a person touches a surface on which the influenza A virus lives for 5 seconds, 32% of the virus living on that surface can transfer to their hands. <a href="https://www.reutersconnect.com/all?id=tag%3Areuters.com%2C2020%3Anewsml_RC27TE9RK4CY&amp;share=true">Nick Zieminski/Reuters</a> A man with a face mask rides the subway in the Queens borough of New York City, February 2, 2020. "If you're about to eat, fix your makeup, play with the baby, etcetera, wash your hands," she said. She also suggested washing your hair if it gets sneezed on, even though the virus doesn't last very long on it. Of course, the coronavirus can't infect you through your hands, so if you never touch your eyes, nose, mouth, you can avoid infection. Ahn Young-joon/AP A currency trader wearing a face mask watches monitors at the foreign exchange dealing room of the KEB Hana Bank headquarters in Seoul, South Korea, March 5, 2020. But that's easier said than done. "Most humans touch their faces several hundreds of times per day, so it's still best to be aware of how clean your hands are," Graham said. Read more: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/covid-19-coronavirus-has-pandemic-potential-says-who-2020-2">The coronavirus has pandemic 'potential' as it spreads in South Korea, Italy, and Iran, according to WHO</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/when-will-coronavirus-outbreak-end-2020-2">One key indicator will tell us when the coronavirus outbreak is winding down - but we're not seeing it yet</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-in-charts-covid-19-symptoms-spread-deaths-warnings-2020-2">What to know about the coronavirus outbreak in 9 charts and maps</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-death-rate-by-country-2020-3">One chart shows 11 countries' current coronavirus death rates, based on the known number of cases and deaths</a> <a></a>Featured Digital Health Articles: - <a>Telehealth Industry: Benefits, Services &amp; Examples</a> - <a>Value-Based Care Model: Pay-for-Performance Healthcare</a> - <a>Senior Care &amp; Assisted Living Market Trends</a> - <a>Smart Medical Devices: Wearable Tech in Healthcare</a> - <a>AI in Healthcare</a> - <a>Remote Patient Monitoring Industry: Devices &amp; Market Trends</a> <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-myths-debunked-wuhan-china-2020-2">Pathologists debunk 13 myths about the coronavirus, including why masks won't help</a></h3> <pre style="display: none;">function receiveMessage(event){ console.log(event.data.fullscreen); Android.fullscreen(event.data.fullscreen); }window.addEventListener("message", receiveMessage, false);</pre>

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