Face masks are a simple way to help prevent the spread of the new coronavirus through talking, coughing, or sneezing, say scientists and public health specialists. But they need to be used properly.
While some types of masks are more effective than others, public health officials say that any facial covering, even a scarf, is better than nothing.
Here’s how the different types of masks compare and how they should be worn.
Cut from different fabric
Common masks fall into three categories: cloth or cover-up masks such as leggings, designed to prevent an infected person from spreading the virus by catching large drops; Surgical masks, with a more sophisticated design, are also intended to prevent the user from spreading disease; and N95 masks, which also protect the user and fit well on the face.
Cloth
– Typically homemade
– Style and materials vary widely.
– Prevents the user from spreading diseases
– Work on collective immunity: the more masks they wear,
the more effective they are
– Wash after using
Surgical
– Loose fit
– Prevents the user from spreading diseases
– Delete after using
– Made of a material called polypropylene
N95
– Tight fit, must be tested
– Protects the user if adjusted correctly
– Limited quantity
Cloth
– Typically homemade
– Style and materials vary widely.
– Prevents the user from spreading diseases
– Work in collective immunity: the more they wear masks, the more effective they are
– Wash after using
Surgical
– Loose fit
– Prevents the user from spreading diseases
– Delete after using
– Made of a material called polypropylene
N95
– Tight fit, must be tested
– Protects the user if adjusted correctly
– Limited quantity
Fit vs function
A good cloth mask filters well and is comfortable to breathe.
A cloth mask should consist of three layers: an inner layer near the mouth that can get wet, a medium filtration layer, and an external layer exposed to the outside environment. Here are the materials for homemade masks that do this best, according to the World Health Organization, using a scale that combines filter quality and breathability. A higher rating is better.
Degree of breathability and filtration
How a mask fits is as important as what it is made of.
How to put on a mask
one) Check for facial mask defects, such as tears or
broken loops
two) Put a loop over each ear. The mask will contour to the face,
but not as strong as an N95.
3) The mask should sit on the bridge of the nose.
one) The straps rest on the back of the head. An N95 will be outlined
tight to the face.
two) Mold the metal strip to the shape of your nose
3) Retighten the straps or mouthpiece until
proper seal is achieved
4) Place both hands on the respirator and breathe.
If there are leaks, there is no proper seal.
5) If you can’t get a proper seal, try a different N95 size
or model.
Surgical mask
one) Check for facial mask defects, such as tears.
or broken loops
two) Put a loop over each ear. The mask will be outlined
to face, but not as strong as an N95.
3) The mask should sit on the bridge of the nose.
N95
one) The straps rest on the back of the head. An N95
It will contour firmly to the face.
two) Mold the metal strip to the shape of your nose
3) Retighten the straps or mouthpiece until
proper seal is achieved
4) Place both hands on the respirator and breathe.
If there are leaks, there is no proper seal.
5) If you can’t get a proper stamp, try another
Size or model N95.
Removing a mask properly is also important to prevent the spread of the virus.
Three steps to remove an N95 mask
Do not touch the front of the N95 to remove the mask. This can cause contamination.
Pull the straps off the back of your head. Discard while making sure to avoid touching the respirator.
Discard your mask and wash your hands
If you need to reuse an N95 mask, store it in a paper bag for five days. Then you can reuse it.
Professional grade
N95 masks filter out at least 95% of very small particles when used correctly, including droplets that carry viruses. The versions with a plastic valve in the center, which makes the mask easier to exhale, are intended for industrial workers and offer protection only to the user.
True N95s are not easy to use correctly. They must have an airtight seal on the face to ensure that all air passes through the filter rather than around the edges. But they offer the best protection against coronavirus, which is why the WHO recommends that these masks be reserved for healthcare workers.
A manufacturer’s trade name
or the logo must be printed on
the mask
Name “NIOSH”
should appear in
an official N95 respirator
N95 respirators manufactured
after September 2008, you must
have a TC approval number
The lot number is an identification
number which can also include the
date the mask was made. Their
recommended, but it is not mandatory
one) The name “NIOSH” must appear on an official N95
respirator
two) The trade name or logo of a manufacturer must be
printed on the mask
3) Model number
4) N95 respirators manufactured after September
2008, must have a TC approval number
5) The LOT number is an identification number that
You can also include the date the mask was made. Their
recommended, but it is not mandatory
Write to Austen Hufford at [email protected]
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