A [[mouth mask]] of the type worn by [[doctor]]s and [[nurse]]s to prevent the spread of bacteria from the wearer's mouth and nose.  It is composed of a rectangular piece of cloth with several horizontal folds to allow it to stretch over the mouth and nose.  This term refers to two similar types of medical masks, a [i]procedure mask[/i] and [i]surgical mask[/i].  [i]Procedure masks[/i] may not be sterile and fasten by looping around the ears; used when carrying out general medical procedures like a check-up. [i]Surgical masks[/i] are sterile and are fastened by bands that loop around the head; used when carrying out surgeries.

In Japan, it is common to wear a face mask whilst ill to avoid infecting others in public settings. During the [[coronavirus pandemic]], it became common to wear masks worldwide.

They are also worn by delinquents, from school renegades to [[bousouzoku]] and the [[yakuza]]. 

h4. See also

* [[Fellatio under mask]]
* [[Mask around one ear]]
* [[Mask lift]]
* [[Mask pull]]

h4. External links

* "Wikipedia - Surgical mask":[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surgical_mask]
衛生マスク サージカルマスク