Baton Rouge Sports Drink company brings its innovation and quick thinking to help those in need on the frontline of the healthcare system. Two Baton Rouge companies are collaborating to manufacture reusable N95 masks for healthcare workers amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Sports drink business Hydra-Guard and Inventherm jointly developed reusable N95 mask for use during the coronavirus pandemic.
The collaboration between the two companies resulted in reusable N95 mask with replaceable FDA approved bacterial/ viral filters. The plastic mask itself can be cleaned with a disinfectant and reused indefinitely. While the replaceable filter can be plugged into the mask and prevents bacteria and viruses that pass through the filter.
"Given that the masks can be reused, we hope to help lessen the supply stress on the standard N95 masks in some organizations." Says Joseph Tucker, CEO of Hydra-Guard.
Many hospitals have experienced shortages of personal protection equipment for health care workers who are caring for patients who may test positive for COVID-19 and some hospitals across the United States have been accepting homemade masks, often used for visitors. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that individuals begin wearing masks in public, whether they are a health care worker or not.
"Our goal was to develop the very best protection for healthcare workers and those working on the frontlines. Unlike many DIY masks, we wanted a relative high degree of certainty that N95 specifications would be met or exceeded. In addition, we wanted a design that could be quickly manufactured in volume without the need for additional capital equipment. Our hearts go out to everyone that has been affected by the Covid-19 and Hydra-Guard is honored to play a small roll by helping. We are all in this together and all play a part by staying home, we will come out of this stronger than ever before” says Tucker.
The CDC says if you’re experiencing symptoms of coronavirus — including fever, cough, shortness of breath 2-14 days after exposure — seek medical attention immediately. Today is a great day to start taking the best care of yourself. Don’t skip on great nutrition, hydration, rest and exercise. Help others do the same. And, for the latest information from the CDC, please click here.