Should New York City residents buy gas masks to protect themselves and their families?
DOHMH strongly discourages purchasing gas masks for protection against biological agents. Gas masks are intended for short-term use and would only provide protection if worn at the time of a known release. Unless a mask was worn all the time, which is impractical as well as dangerous, it would not protect against a covert (surprise) release of biological agents. Masks also need to be fitted properly. Improper use of gas masks can cause serious injury or even death by accidental suffocation, especially among persons with underlying heart or lung disease.
