UV disinfection is probably the best method for larger organizations with a good capacity to ensure continuous availability and effectiveness of devices and lights necessary for the technique. If UV is not available, heat treatment at 70–75°C for a period of 60 minutes will inactivate viruses completely. In Darnell’s study on the SARS virus of 2004, 45 minutes at 75°C was sufficient. We’ve extended the time in this protocol to allow for heat at 70°C as well.
This temperature can be achieved with a rice cooker on the ‘keep warm’ setting. The ‘cook’ setting will melt the filter.
As per guidelines from the CDC on extended use of N95 filters, here is some guidance.
Discard N95 filters in these scenarios:
- Obviously damaged
- Difficult to breathe through
- When notably/visibly contaminated (blood, secretions, bodily fluids)
How to protect your respirator from contamination:
- Use a cleanable face shield
- Give the patient a regular surgical mask
- Hand hygiene before and after touching N95 respirator (if needed for improved fit/comfort)