Health Canada is advising people not to use face masks that contain something called graphene.
Graphene is “nanomaterial” which means it’s a materials made of tiny particles.
Graphene is used in masks because it’s believed to have antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Health Canada conducted a preliminary scientific assessment after being made aware that masks containing graphene have been sold with COVID-19 claims and used by adults and children in schools and daycares. Health Canada believes they may also have been distributed for use in health care settings.
Health Canada found that inhaled graphene particles had some potential to cause early lung toxicity in animals. However, the potential for people to inhale graphene particles from face masks and the related health risks are not yet known, and may vary based on mask design.
The health risk to people of any age is not clear. You can read the full advisory from Health Canada here.
