Throughout the United States, we've seen a significant increase in the use of face masks over the past few months. It is important to understand the differences in face masks that you see, how to properly wear them, and how to properly maintain them.
One type of face mask that you may see in hospitals and healthcare facilities is the n95 respirator. These masks are not recommended for use for the general public but are very useful for healthcare providers who have an increased risk of exposure to many illnesses, including COVID-19. To properly wear an n95 respirator, you must be fitted by a trained professional to ensure that there are no gaps in the seal of the mask that would allow for airborne pathogens to enter. Our team at the Health & Wellness Center only wear n95 respirators when we're helping patients respiratory symptoms. Although there are several types of n95 respirators on the market, here is an example of what one may look like:
Surgical or procedure masks are very commonly seen in the Health & Wellness Center as all of our staff are required to wear them while in the office. Surgical masks are made from at least three layers of synthetic, nonwoven materials that have a filtration layer in the middle. According to the CDC, these medical masks reduce the respiratory droplets from the wearer to others and to the environment. They also prevent transmission of the virus from others to the wearer. Find out more about the difference between n95 respirators and surgical masks by viewing this graphic below:
Cloth masks have become a very popular option for people throughout the world to protect themselves during this pandemic. These can be homemade with various household items or purchased through retailers and are a reliable option for the average person. While they are convenient, it is important to understand their limitations and how to properly care for them. It is recommended by professionals that people 2 years of age and older wear cloth masks in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. The CDC recommends washing your cloth mask after every use for optimal health and safety. View the link below for the official CDC recommendations on how to properly clean and dry your cloth mask.
How to Wash your Cloth Face Coverings | CDC
If you would like to receive more information on how to make your own cloth mask at home, be sure to watch this video from the United States Surgeon General, Dr. Jerome Adams: