Mask with pleats inactivates 99.99% of tested influenza viruses on 5 minutes contact with the surface of the face mask. Tested on specific seasonal flu viruses, Pandemic H1N1, Avian, Swine and Equine, the mask has a hydrophilic plastic coating that rapidly absorbs aerosol droplets away from the outer surface of the mask. The first and second layers of the mask are treated with different compounds that inactivate influenza viruses. Rapid absorption ensures the influenza A and B viruses are wicked away from the outer surface. In the outer active layer, viruses are inactivated by exposure to a low pH environment.