Kenyan Doctor Develops an Antiviral Surgical Mask Using Nanotechnology

Kenyan medic Dr. Joseph Nderitu has invented an antiviral surgical mask using nanotechnology.

Nderitu, who is attached to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), says the mask kills viruses and bacteria that come in contact with it.

Speaking during an interview with Nation, the scientist said the invention was inspired by the flooding of substandard facemasks following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya and other parts of the world in 2020.

Nderitu noted that the regular surgical masks being sold in Kenya are just mechanical barriers that only filter microbes.

"Those (microbes) that are filtered remain on the surface of the masks, and because the mask is just a physical barrier, there’s nothing to kill the bacteria or viruses on the surface.”

“As a result, the bacteria accumulate and become a hazard to the user of the mask and others," said Nderitu, adding that the invention is based on nano mask technology.

Nderitu explained that a woven fabric is used to make the mask such that it can be washed multiple times without losing its antimicrobial qualities. The fabric is treated with nanoproducts and is woven from scratch.

He partnered with Nakuru-based Bedi Investments that deals in textiles in developing an antimicrobial fabric used to make the masks.

The National Microbiology Reference Laboratory tested and approve the masks for use. Tests conducted to verify the antimicrobial potency of the fabric showed that there was no bacterial growth.

The protective mask is trading as Tiira Nano