Canadian health officials have issued a warning about face masks that contain graphene or biography, calling for a recall by distributors, according to reports.
Health Canada said that graphene is a new nanomaterial that has antiviral and antibacterial properties.
However, the statement released on Friday warns that there is “potential for users to be able to inhale graphene particles from some masks,” Global News reported.
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A preliminary assessment found that these particles had “some potential to cause early lung toxicity in animals”.
The potential for humans, however, is unknown and may “vary based on the design of the mask”.
ARCHIVE – In this March 31, 2021 archival photo, students at Wyandotte County High School wear masks as they walk down a corridor on the first day of face-to-face learning at the school in Kansas City, Kansas. (AP Photo / Charlie Riedel, Archives)
((AP Photo / Charlie Riedel, Archive))
No incidents have been reported yet, but that hasn’t stopped Health Canada from warning all known distributors, importers and manufacturers to stop selling graphene-containing masks.
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Some of these masks may have been distributed in healthcare settings, the agency said.
While the potential potential health hazard is unclear, the agency said the risks associated with medical devices are “unacceptable”, reported CTV News.
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“Unless manufacturers of these masks can provide substantial evidence to support the safe and effective use of graphene-coated masks, Health Canada considers the risk of these medical devices to be unacceptable,” Health Canada said.
Health Canada continues to study data and requested more information from manufacturers to better assess health risks.