Are expired surgical masks usable? I know they are less effective but when desperate, can I use it? Or better off without it?

Hi Doc. Can I check if expired N95 are reusable as well? The only problem is the foam that is fixed at the top has sort of come off. Can I just scotchtape that part and wear it. I have quite a number from the haze days. Or should I throw them away? 

Hi @Ain yes they are reusable and some of us front-liners are re-using them for a few days if they are intact and not soiled. However, if the foam seal you described has come off, that can affect the fit, and it would not be recommended to re-use them - please consider throwing them away.

That being said, I would like to highlight that the N95 masks are highly dependent on a good fit and even healthcare workers need to undergo testing to determine their fit. Simple factors such as facial hair can affect the snugness of fit. Also, some studies have indicated equivalent performance with surgical masks that are much more comfortable and easier to apply. More information on HSA's website here: https://www.hsa.gov.sg/consumer-safety/articles/guide-to-masks-and-respirators

That being said, for those not on the frontline with regular direct exposure to symptomatic patients, the CDC has recommended that cloth masks suffice for the purpose of general protection with every day use during this period, on the basis of available evidence. I would therefore strongly recommend against the use of N95 masks. More information about how cloth masks can be effectively used on CDC's website here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html