The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said that Americans should wear the most protective masks. However, have stopped recommending N95, KF94 or other similar face masks. Now in such a situation, the question is important that in this era of epidemic, which mask you and I should apply, which can protect us from Covid-19.
What are N95 masks?
N95 masks, or also known as KN95s and KF94s in other countries, are often made of multiple layers of polypropylene, a synthetic fiber. These masks are designed in such a way that they cover the entire mouth from the lower part of the nose. Its stripes, which run along the back and sides of the head, completely cover the nose and mouth.
Properly worn N95 respirators are designed to filter at least 95% of the particulate matter in the air, preventing anything larger than .3 microns from passing through.
The KN95s and KF94s are certified in China and South Korea, respectively, and provide the same protection as N95 masks. KF stands for “Korean Filter” and it performs 94% filtration.
“The best masks are some version of N95,” said Eric Toner, senior scientist for environmental health and engineering at Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health. “The N95s, KN95s and KF94s work the same and in the same way,” he said. Masks with exhaust valves do not prevent the spread of the virus between people.
How to identify the original mask?
The CDC has a complete list of authorized N95 mask manufacturers on its agency’s website. The original mask must have a printed logo of the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and an approval number. The CDC warns that about 60% of KN95 respirators tested in 2020 and 2021 are below standard.
Why should we change masks now?
Due to the Omicron variant, the COVID-19 cases are so high, so experts said that only a better mask will help prevent transmission.
The CDC stated that the NIOSH-approved N95 provides the most protection. Well-fitting surgical masks and KN95 masks provide the best protection, followed by multi-layer cloth masks. Loosely woven cloth masks are much less effective. But protection is increased when worn over a surgical mask.
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Some cloth masks have built-in pockets for filters, which block out small particles, but these are not as effective and there is limited data on how effective their use is.
Can they be used again?
The CDC said the masks are for single use, but can be used more than once if there is a shortage. The agency says that N95s should not be used more than 5 times.
Mayo Clinic infectious disease specialist Dr. Gregory Poland said that when a mask becomes wet from exhalation or sweat, its effectiveness is reduced.
When to wear N95 mask?
The CDC recommends that people consider wearing an N95 when caring for someone with COVID-19. Also wear this mask when traveling for an extended time on public transport, in or out of crowded places, in a job at high risk of serious illness or for serious illness.
Is double masking better?
The CDC has advised that if it is not possible to use N95, wearing a surgical mask under a cloth mask may provide more protection.
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