Mask-wearing has become a part of everyday life for many of us in the last year, and while we seek ways to help return to our lives – that summer holiday or chance to reconnect with friends, we need to remain vigilant and protect ourselves as much as possible.

What is it?

The AB Mask Plus from The Body Doctor, is a new, reusable antiviral mask, proven to reduce tested viruses on the material surface by over 99% in just two hours.

The AB Mask Plus follows on from its anti-bacterial predecessor, created pre-COVID-19 to help clinically vulnerable people attend hospital appointments and more, in a safe way. The mask was created by The Body Doctor team for their Production Manager Aden, who suffers from Cystic Fibrosis; as such,the AB mask was helping keep people safe before masks became everyday wear.

The new AB Mask Plus comprises seven layers, with two layers of antiviral protected fabric and a five layer replaceable filter. The antiviral protection comes from a specially developed coating used, called Polygiene® ViralOff®, which is applied to breathable soft fabric that is washable. Each filter should be effective for 40 hours’ use. However, filter longevity depends on the intensity of the particulate matter in the environment around you; with that in mind, it is recommended that the filter is replaced at the time of washing the mask or before if it becomes harder to draw breath. Used filters should be disposed of through general household waste and of course, after disposing of any used filters, hands should be thoroughly washed with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand gel.

How has it been tested?

The mask has been tested on a number of respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 and while it cannot promise immunity, owing to the variety of ways these viruses can be transmitted, it can deliver a crucial reduction in viral load which can impact likelihood or severity of illness, if contracted.

When to use the AB Mask Plus

The AB Mask Plus is a Type 1 Medical Mask, which should only be used to reduce the risk of the spread of infections particularly in epidemic or pandemic situations. Each mask is intended for use by one person only and must not be shared.

As COVID-19 restrictions continue to impact daily life, mask wearing is here to stay and much like with its other health and eye-care products, The Body Doctor is seeking to make life that bit easier with its range which are found on the high street as well as online.

The Body Doctor Production Manager and inspiration behind the original masks, Aden Bradley said: “AB Mask Plus is a timely and exciting addition to our product range and one I know will give people with health conditions like me, and now the wider public, a sense of greater confidence when wearing a mask.

“The fact that it can be washed and reused also helps mitigate the impact of mask wearing on the environment, another huge plus as we enter into a future that is likely to involve masks to some degree for months and possibly years to come.”

A special Valentine’s Day bundle is now also available complete with an AB Mask Plus for you and your significant other, after all, nothing says I love you like I want you to be safe.

You can find The AB Mask Plus here