After the SARS-CoV-2 virus emerged in Wuhan, China, in late 2019, it quickly spread around the world, causing a global pandemic. While no definitive solution has fully stopped its spread, wearing masks remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk, especially in crowded places where maintaining social distance isn’t practical.
In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of face masks: the types available, how they protect you, and how to use them properly. The CDC strongly suggests that everyone, whether sick or healthy, wear cloth face masks in public spaces where keeping six feet away from others isn’t feasible, like grocery stores. This advice is crucial since people can unknowingly spread the virus before showing symptoms (presymptomatic) or without ever showing symptoms at all (asymptomatic).
### How Do Face Masks Work?
The coronavirus spreads through droplets expelled when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Face masks serve as a protective barrier, covering your nose and mouth to block these virus-carrying droplets. If worn correctly, masks can help reduce the risk of inhaling infectious particles.
If you’re infected, even without symptoms, masks also prevent your droplets from spreading to others. In this way, wearing masks can significantly slow the transmission of COVID-19.
### Do Face Masks Fully Protect Against the Virus?
While masks alone won’t completely eliminate your risk of catching or spreading the virus, they add an extra layer of protection. When combined with frequent handwashing and social distancing, they provide substantial defense against COVID-19. However, it’s important to understand that wearing a mask doesn’t mean you’re immune to the virus—it simply reduces the likelihood of transmission.
### Types of Face Masks
There are three main types of masks used for coronavirus protection: homemade cloth masks, surgical masks, and N95 respirators. These can be broadly categorized based on whether they are intended for healthcare workers or the general public.
#### 1. Masks for Healthcare Workers
Healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and first responders face higher risks of exposure to the virus. To protect themselves, they require masks that offer the highest level of filtration and fit.
– **N95 Respirators**: These masks fit snugly on the face and filter out about 95% of airborne particles, making them highly effective. However, their effectiveness depends on a proper fit.
– **Surgical Masks**: Usually blue with a white border, surgical masks are looser than N95 respirators. They protect against large droplets but may not filter out smaller airborne particles. Due to limited supplies, these masks should be prioritized for healthcare workers.
#### 2. Masks for the General Public
Homemade cloth masks are an excellent option for people who aren’t healthcare workers. These masks provide sufficient protection in situations where social distancing isn’t possible, like in stores or public transportation.
When making your own mask, remember these tips:
– Use at least two layers of material.
– Ensure a snug fit around the nose and mouth without discomfort.
– Consider adding a filter pocket, but remove the filter before washing.
– For better fit, you can add a wire over the nose area.
### Benefits of Homemade Masks
Homemade masks have some key advantages:
– They’re easy to make with materials already available at home.
– They help prevent the spread of droplets from asymptomatic or presymptomatic individuals.
– Though not as effective as N95 respirators or surgical masks, they’re far better than wearing no mask at all, especially in places where maintaining social distance is a challenge.
### Limitations of Homemade Masks
Despite their benefits, cloth masks do have downsides:
– They offer lower protection compared to medical-grade masks, possibly creating a false sense of security.
– Studies show that homemade masks provide about 50% less protection than N95 respirators or surgical masks.
– Homemade masks should always be paired with social distancing and proper hygiene for maximum effectiveness.
### Filters in Masks: Should You Use Them?
Masks with filters can provide better protection as multiple fabric layers trap virus particles more effectively. However, too many layers can make it hard to breathe, reducing comfort during extended use. Choose a material that is safe, breathable, and does not contain harmful substances like fiberglass.
Recommended filter materials include:
– **HEPA Filters**: While effective, HEPA filters may release fibers that could be harmful to inhale. To mitigate this, sandwich the filter between fabric layers.
– **Paper Products**: Coffee filters, paper towels, or tissues can serve as substitutes, though they’re less durable.
– **Polypropylene Bags**: These reusable materials are soft, breathable, and washable, making them an excellent option for filters.
Avoid heavy fabrics like tea towels, as they may restrict airflow and make breathing difficult.
### How to Wear a Mask Properly
Wearing a mask correctly ensures maximum protection. Follow these steps:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the mask.
2. Ensure the mask securely covers your nose, mouth, and chin, leaving no gaps around the edges.
3. Do not touch the mask while wearing it. If you need to adjust it, clean your hands immediately afterward.
4. Remove the mask without touching the front by untying it or unhooking the straps.
5. Wash fabric masks after each use. For disposable masks, discard them in a closed bin immediately after removal.
### Special Instructions for Surgical Masks
If you’ve tested positive for COVID-19 and share your living space, surgical masks are essential to protect those around you. They trap respiratory droplets effectively, reducing the risk of spreading the virus. When wearing a surgical mask:
1. Check for tears or holes before putting it on.
2. Ensure the colored side faces outward and the metal strip molds over your nose’s bridge.
3. Dispose of the mask properly after a single use, and clean your hands promptly.
### When Should You Wear a Mask?
The CDC advises everyone over the age of two to wear a cloth face mask in public, particularly where social distancing is difficult. Additionally, if you’re sick or caring for a COVID-19 patient at home, wearing a mask is vital to protect others.
While a mask alone won’t completely prevent coronavirus, it’s a critical tool when used alongside other measures like frequent handwashing and social distancing. Wearing a mask is a simple, effective way to protect yourself and others. Stay safe, take precautions, and do your part to help reduce the spread of the virus.