The Manitoba government began handing out free boxes of KN95 masks at Winnipeg liquor stores and casinos this week.
Central Services Minister Reg Helwer tweeted this week that “KN95 masks have been shown to be more effective than cloth or procedure masks, as they fit better and provide a higher level of filtration.”
In Brandon, the masks would reportedly be made available after Christmas – and hopefully we’ll get some fresh ones.
A Global News reporter picked up a box of KN95 masks on Wednesday, and said they appeared to have expired in May. The reporter said “A label on the box says “Storage life: Valid for 1 year,” and a printed slip inside the box showed the masks had been produced in May of 2020.”
However, Global reports the province says the masks are actually good for longer than a year. “The manufacturer has stated that all KN95 masks are good for three years after the production or manufacture date,” said a provincial spokesperson. “The box had a printing error which states one year. Information regarding the misprint and shelf life can also be found on the manufacturer’s website.”
Public health officials have said masks may be less effective beyond the expiration date determined by the manufacturer. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended the use of expired masks only under “crisis” shortage situations.
