Medical masks and personal protective equipment (PPE) are both used for infection control, but they serve different purposes. Medical masks mainly protect the nose and mouth from droplets, germs, and respiratory particles, while PPE includes a broader range of protective gear such as gloves, gowns, face shields, goggles, and respirators.
PPE is designed to provide more comprehensive protection in healthcare and high-risk environments. Proper use and disposal are important to reduce the spread of infections like COVID-19. Choosing the right level of protection depends on exposure risk, workplace setting, and the type of potential contamination involved.