Antimicrobial Respirator Mask Protects Surgical Teams

The technology is based on an antimicrobial agent embedded into the fiber that kills 99.99% of three types of bacteria (Streptococcus pyogenes, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Haemophilus influenzae).The embedded agent, called the Fosshield fiber system, also reduces mask odor caused by bacterial growth, and the surgical respirator continuously self-sanitizes itself for extended use.

Fosshield technology permanently embeds a nontoxic active silver and copper antimicrobial agent into the fibers of the material, causing bacteria to become unable to multiply on the outer layers of the mask, nor penetrate it over time. The Fosshield fiber system was developed in a collaborative research and development relationship with Foss Manufacturing (Hampton, NH, USA), the owner of the technology, in return for exclusive rights to use Fosshield in all textile-based healthcare products. The SpectraShield 9500 surgical respirator is a product of Nexera Medical (Richmond, Canada), and has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

"Nexera developed this technology in response to existing health threats and the possibility of new strains of harmful microorganisms,” said Paul Sallarulo, president and CEO of Nexera. "We understand the need for governments and public health officials to have access to cutting edge technology that will help them prepare for and respond to future disease outbreaks and/or pandemics.”

N95 surgical respirators are different from regular facemasks, which are designed to help block large-particle droplets, splashes, sprays, or splatter that may contain viruses and bacteria from reaching the mouth and nose. They are not designed to block particles transmitted by coughs, sneezes, or certain medical procedures, nor do they provide complete protection from germs and other contaminants due to the loose fit between the surface and the face. N95 designation means that the respirator blocks at least 95% of very small particles, exceeding the capabilities of regular facemasks. Even a properly fitted N95 respirator, however, does not eliminate the risk of infection, illness, or death.

Related Links:
Nexera Medical
Foss Manufacturing