The unprecedented coronavirus pandemic has drastically changed our habits, now more than ever, people are concerned about being safe from contagion as this deadly virus makes humans visibly sick and vulnerable. This is why strategies to deal with the novel coronavirus are marked differently than other health problems. As it turns out, universal masking is key to reduce the transmission of infection to a great extent.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US recommends people to wear a mask in public settings to curb the spread of the virus, especially when there is close proximity to one another and social distancing is hard to maintain. The more people wear masks, the better it would be for the entire community to mitigate health hazards.
Still wondering how face masks work, what to consider when selecting a mask, and is it viable equipment to slow the spread of COVID-19? Well, anyone of us could be skeptical about these new changes. But don’t worry, by the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of masks’ effectiveness and no longer need to feel vulnerable when out in public. So let’s get started!
How does a Face Mask Protect Yourself and People Around You?
Under this serious outbreak situation, a plethora of face masks is designed in different specifications, functions, and standards to flatten the curve of COVID-19. The use of face coverings in risky settings may present several challenges in the beginning, but for those who work in contamination-prone areas should consider wearing respirators like KN95 standard mask and N95 face mask to keep safety and health in check.
Basically, there are three routes of virus transmission i.e. sneezing, coughing, and talking. There is now evidence that people are silently and unknowingly spreading the virus as a significant amount of infectious particles start coming out of their mouth and nose even when they are not experiencing any symptoms. This is where masks play a crucial role as a barrier to halt hazardous particles like dust, air pollutants, germs, fumes, and other contaminants to enter the wearers’ mouth and nose.
Masks can’t guarantee complete protection but wearing it properly can keep the transmission possibility at the lowest and if worn by every individual, it can contribute to creating a safer environment. Especially when it is combined with preventive measures like physical distancing and frequent hand washing, the spread of the highly contagious virus can certainly decline.
If you’re likely to be in close contact with an infected person, wearing a mask can reduce your chances of getting infected. And if you’re showing any signs and symptoms of coronavirus, or have been diagnosed, wearing a mask can also prevent you from spreading the virus to others. Thus, wearing a face mask is crucial for both professional workers and the general public to mitigate exposure to viral and bacterial contaminants.
How Do Different Types of Face Masks Work?
1. N95 and KN95 Respirators
N95 and KN95 can help filter out both large and small particles with its filtration efficiency of up to 95%. These are designed with a multi-layer protective design that prevents bio-aerosols (virus), airborne particles (approximately 0.3 microns), and other harmful substances. They snugly fit around the wearers’ nose and mouth which means no gaps are left and maximum protection while promoting breathability for longer hours.
2. 3-Ply Face Masks
3-ply masks come with a multi-layer design that covers your face, right from over the nose all the way to the chin, to reduce the chances of contagion. These disposable masks could be very effective at minimizing health hazards caused by airborne germ particles, bacteria, smoke, fluid splashes, and other elements.
3. Cloth Masks
Cloth masks are intended to block large particles that may release in the air when a person sneezes, coughs, or talks. These are likely to slow the spread of contagion when they are widely used by individuals in public settings like grocery stores and pharmacies. Cloth face coverings are easily available and can be washed and reused until it gets damaged.
You can easily buy N95 face masks on wholesale but it is advised not to hoard more protective equipment than you need to reserve these essential gear for professionals working in highly risky areas.
Why Wearing a Face Shield Alongside Face Masks is a Viable Choice?
Face shields are designed to cover a wearers’ face right from the head extending all the way under the chin. As a result, it prevents the wearer from touching their own face, mouth, eyes, and mouth frequently which may not be possible with face masks alone. It is considered an adjunctive gear to protect the facial area against splashes, splatters, fumes, and other hazardous agents from entering.
Typically, it isn’t used alone, but in addition to other PPE and preventive measures to ensure safety in different settings. When buying a face shield online, ensure to opt for a PET material and that has a transparent anti-fog function, foam headband, and lightweight design that can be worn for long hours with additional comfort.
Follow Safety Measures to Keep Yourself and Others Safe from COVID-19
- Maintain at least 6-feet distance from others, especially when out in public places.
- Make wearing a face mask a daily habit to protect yourself and those around you.
- Clean your hands before and after using a mask.
- Avoid large gatherings.
- Eat healthy to boost immunity to prevent, fight, and recover from health-related problems.
- Make sure the mask covers your mouth and nose properly, without leaving any gaps.
- Avoid visiting spaces that are closed, crowded, or involve close contact.
- Always follow the basics of good hygiene such as clean your hands, avoid touching your face, cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
- If you are not feeling well, seek help immediately.
As COVID-19 continuously harming many lives, wearing a mask could be a feasible step to halt the transmission of the virus. If you wear a mask and practice social distancing, you can protect yourself and the larger community. You can opt for a 3M N95 mask buy online in the USA or elsewhere, or any other face masks when walking outside your home for food supplies, work, and other purposes.
Maintaining personal hygiene, avoiding crowded places, and wearing a mask is the best thing we can do at the present to reduce the health hazard risks.