Will wearing a face mask protect me from bushfire smoke? – explainer

Only a P2 mask sold in hardware stores is effective against PM2.5 particles. Those with health issues should stay indoors and limit exposure

As Australia's bushfires rage, smoke is posing a growing health risk.

Bushfire smoke carries PM2.5 particles - which have a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less - and can cause long-term health problems.