1. When Should ABPA Patients Wear a Facemask?
A. Indoor Environments
✅ Cleaning & Housework
- Vacuuming, dusting, and sweeping can stir up mould spores and dust mites.
- Use a high-filtration mask (N95/FFP2 or better) while cleaning.
- Consider using a HEPA vacuum to reduce airborne particles.
✅ Home Renovations & Construction Areas
- Mold spores thrive in damp wood, drywall, and dust.
- Wear an FFP3/P100 mask in these settings.
- Avoid direct exposure to freshly disturbed materials.
✅ Damp or Mold-Prone Areas
- Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens can harbour mould.
- If cleaning mouldy surfaces, wear a mask and use antifungal cleaners (e.g., hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar instead of bleach).
✅ Hospitals & Healthcare Visits
- Hospitals carry a higher risk of airborne infections.
- Wear a surgical or N95 mask in waiting rooms or wards.
B. Outdoor Environments
✅ Gardening & Yard Work
- Soil, compost, and decaying leaves are rich in Aspergillus spores.
- Wear an FFP3/P100 mask when handling soil, mulch, or potted plants.
- Avoid raking leaves or turning compost without protection.
✅ Pollution & Wildfire Smoke
- ABPA patients are sensitive to air pollution.
- Use N95/FFP2 or better masks during high pollution days or wildfire smoke events.
✅ Cold & Flu Season / Public Places
- During flu or COVID-19 waves, wearing a mask reduces infection risks.
- Use surgical or N95 masks in crowded areas like public transport or shopping centres.
✅ Travel & Airplanes
- Aeroplanes have recirculated air that may contain allergens or infections.
- Use an N95 or FFP2 mask when flying or in airports.
2. Best Types of Facemasks for ABPA Patients
| Mask Type | Protection Level | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| N95 / FFP2 | Filters 95% of particles (≥0.3 µm) | Pollution, public spaces, cleaning, travel | Good balance of protection and breathability. |
| FFP3 / P100 | Filters ≥99% of airborne particles | Gardening, construction, mold-prone areas | Highest filtration but may be harder to breathe in. |
| Surgical Mask | Protects from droplets (but not fine particles) | Healthcare visits, flu season | Limited protection against mold spores. |
| Cloth Mask | Minimal filtration | General use (if layered with a filter) | Not recommended for ABPA patients without a filter insert. |
💡 Tip: Look for masks with exhalation valves (if not in a healthcare setting) to improve comfort and reduce moisture buildup.
3. Comfort & Safety Considerations
- Breathability: If you have moderate to severe lung impairment, consider FFP2/N95 masks instead of FFP3/P100 for easier airflow.
- Exhalation Valve: Helps reduce heat and moisture inside the mask but should not be used in infection-control settings.
- Hypoallergenic Materials: Choose latex-free, soft-fabric masks to avoid skin irritation.
- Strap Type: Ear loops are convenient, but headbands provide a better seal.
4. Hygiene & Maintenance
For Disposable Masks (N95/FFP2/FFP3/Surgical)
✅ Use once and discard after 8 hours or if damp.
✅ Store in a dry, breathable pouch if reusing briefly.
❌ Do not wash or sanitize.
For Reusable Masks (Elastomeric, P100, Cloth with Filters)
✅ Wash cloth masks regularly with hot water.
✅ Replace filters as per the manufacturer’s guidance.
✅ Wipe down elastomeric masks with alcohol or mild detergent.
5. Additional Tips for ABPA Patients
✅ Check air quality daily – Websites or apps (e.g., AirVisual, DEFRA’s UK air pollution map) can help you decide when to mask up.
✅ Use an air purifier – A HEPA-filtered air cleaner at home can reduce indoor mould spores.
✅ Minimize humidity – Keep indoor humidity below 50% to discourage mould growth.
✅ Avoid prolonged mask use if it causes discomfort – If you struggle with breathing, take breaks in a clean, mold-free environment.