When it is used as a filter, it is not uncommon for the manufacturer to spray a PVC coating to make it stronger and last longer.
The added benefit for the drywall finisher is to roll out the mesh over a great distance before having to apply the first coat of joint compound.
If it is only slightly damaged, a couple of short pieces of the tape will be formed into a square and placed over the hole.
If the hole is too large to patch with fiberglass mesh alone, a piece of metal flashing can be added behind the tape before applying joint compound.
Firemen wear jackets made of tightly woven mesh when they are battling a fire.