Can sterilization of disposable face masks be an alternative for imported face masks?: A nationwide field study including 19 sterilization departments and 471 imported brand types during COVID-19 shortages

Background<br/>Face masks, also referred to as half masks, are essential to protect healthcare professionals working in close contact with patients with COVID-19-related symptoms. Because of the Corona material shortages, healthcare institutions sought an approach to reuse face masks or to purchase new, imported masks. The filter quality of...