You might have observed that the number of people infected with COVID-19 is on the rise again, which might make you think about taking off these masks that you’ve been wearing to shield yourself from the virus.
Cloth masks, on the other hand, do not offer the same level of protection as N95 respirator masks, which are generally regarded as the method that is most effective in terms of removing particulate matter from the air. This is something that we should all know by now.
The N95 breathing mask is designed to fit more snugly on the face in order to prevent air from entering the face through the edges
. On its website, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers more information and makes a recommendation about the usage of N95 masks that are labelled as “surgical.” However, you may still purchase disposable masks in addition to the N95 masks.
Now is the time for everyone to refresh themselves on the fundamentals of COVID-19 prevention, which, according to the CDC, include things like getting vaccinated (and stepping it up), social distancing, avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated indoor areas, washing hands regularly, and, of course, wearing a mask indoors or in areas of high transmission, even if you’ve been vaccinated.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that the N95 and K95 surgical masks offer the highest level of protection against viruses.
The primary distinction between these masks and the N95 masks that have been approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health in the United States is that KN95 masks are considered to be comparable to N95 masks in countries outside of the United States. These masks have the ability to filter up to 95% of the aerosol particulate matter.
As a result of NIOSH approval, the price of N95 masks is typically higher than the price of KN95 masks.
On the other hand, if you are able to locate N95 masks, you have an extra guarantee that the products in question have passed inspection by authorities in the United States.
We have gathered a list of the many N95 and KN95 masks that are available, as well as the locations where they can be purchased, for individuals who are thinking about starting to wear masks again.