Face masks have become a critically important public health intervention after theCOVID-19 pandemic. Multiple types of masks ranging from full face filtering to clothmasks have been developed and commercialized to facilitate protection against respiratorypathogens. Most of these systems are made with opaque fabrics and may prevent individualsfrom expressing emotions or for those who are deaf and hard of hearing, communicating. Todate, few transparent face masks which also confer respiratory pathogen protection havebeen developed. This study will test the feasability and acceptability of two new masks,the SEEUS-95 mask and CrystalGuard mask which are both transparent versions of N-95filtering face masks.
This is a randomized crossover trial to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and
choice between the use of the SEEUS-95, CrystalGuard transparent face masks or a standard
N95 mask. Otherwise healthy individuals will be prescreened and then scheduled for a
single study visit. Participants will be randomized to wear each of the three masks
(SEEUS-95, CrystalGuard, N95). They will be taught how to wear the mask, and we will
assist participants with correctly wearing the mask for a good fit. Next, participants
will undergo standard FIT testing where a clear hood will be placed over the
participant's head, and a bitter solution (Bitrex) is sprayed into the hood. A positive
test is indicated if the participant is able to taste Bitrex demonstrating that there is
a detected leak within the mask. After a few minute washout period, participants will
undergo FIT testing of subsequent masks. We will ask participants to rate the comfort of
wearing the masks, willingness to wear masks in public and suggestions for improvement in
mask design. Finally, we will conduct a discrete choice test to ask participants which
mask they would prefer to wear in public.
Device: SEEUS95 Transparent mask
SEEUS95 developed transparent filtering mask
Other Name: SEEUS95
Device: CrystalGuard Mask
CrystalGuard transparent mask
Other Name: CrystalGuard
Device: N95 face mask
Standard N95 style face mask
Other Name: N95
Inclusion Criteria:
- >18 years old
- No history of asthma, restrictive lung disease, interstitial lung disease, or
emphysema
- Lack of significant facial hair that precludes wearing a N-95 mask
Exclusion Criteria:
- Less than 18 years old
- Unable to smell Bitrex solution used for fit testing
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, United States
Investigator: Peter R Chai, MD MMS
Contact: 617-732-5640
pchai@bwh.harvard.edu
Peter Chai, MD
617-732-5640
pchai@bwh.harvard.edu
Adrian Hasdianda, MD
617-732-5640
mhasdianda@bwh.harvard.edu
Peter Chai, MD, Principal Investigator
Brigham and Women's Hospital