Protective Apparel

Protective Apparel for Infection Prevention

Personal protection equipment (PPE) plays an important role in limiting transmission of infection from person to person. Commonly used in health care settings, some of these items are very useful for people in their everyday lives. PPE such as masks, either disposable surgical masks that are fluid resistant or N95 particulate respirator masks can be very useful. Other items such as exam gloves and gowns can provide protection to people in at risk situations. PPE acts as a barrier between infectious materials such as viral and bacterial contaminants and your skin, mouth, nose, or eyes (mucous membranes). The barrier has the potential to block transmission of contaminants from blood, body fluids, or respiratory secretions.