There's little evidence that wearing a cloth face mask keeps you from catching the virus. The main benefit is to protect the people around you.
Types of Face Masks for Coronavirus
Masks for health care workers
N95 respirators and surgical masks should be reserved for health care workers and first responders. Because there aren't enough of these masks for everyone, it's important that they go to the doctors, nurses, and other medical staff who need them most.
N95 respirator masks fit tightly around your face. They filter out 95% or more of the smallest particles in the air. But they have to fit just right in order to work.
Surgical masks are often blue with white borders. They fit loosely across your nose and mouth. These masks shield against the large droplets that come from a sick person's cough or sneeze, but they're too loose to protect against all germs. And they can't block the tiniest particles that may carry coronavirus.
Masks for non-health care workers
- Cloth masks are best for people who don't work in health care. Here are some tips to keep in mind when making your own or looking for handmade masks:
- You can sew the fabric, tie it around your face, or fold it around some hair ties for ear loops.
- Use at least two layers of material.
- You might add a pocket for a filter. Be sure to take it out before you wash the mask.
Take care and Be Safe!
