Consider the Options; Can Decontamination and Reuse be the Answer to N95 Respirator Shortage in COVID-19 Pandemic?

Health care workers (HCWs) are heavily involved in the fight against COVID-19 in all over the world. They have the vital role of treating patients and searching for the proper treatment for the disease, while supporting and protecting their families. It is imperative that the systems should try hard to keep them safe and healthy. World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have recently published guidelines for keeping HCWs safe and protected. The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is the cornerstone of recommendations and contains face mask (air purifying respirator), goggles or face shield, gown, and gloves. There is no doubt that a proper mask (e.g. N95) is the most important element of the protective gear when it comes to transmission of COVID-19.