Our masks got the patent from 5 countries. These masks are recommended for provention of h1n1 flu virus because upon contacting with water, nanosilver releases silver ions. Active silver ions and sh radicals of enzyme in the bacteria are attracted to one another and bonded together readily, deactivating enzymatic activity of sh radicals. Hence, the bacteria are injured and die right away. This is how the bactericidal effect of nanosilver functions. 1pc/pe bag