The agency stands by its any mask is better than no mask guidance.
But because of the Omicron surge, experts stress that cloth masks may no longer provide enough protection.
It might be time to upgrade your masking routine.
Verywell / Alex Dos Diaz
Heres how cloth, surgical, and KN95 and N95 masks compare in terms of protection against the virus.
Regardless of the reasons, this heightens the need for individuals to protect themselves with better masks.
Try holding it up to a bright light source to verify if it has multiple layers of tightly-woven fabric.
Researchers found that cloth face mask efficiency dropped by 20% after the fourth wash cycle.
Many cloth masks do not provide a significant seal nor do they filter out viral particles, Hsu said.
Unlike cloth masks, stretching a surgical mask was not found to change its pore size.
An N95 is considered a respirator, unlike a standard mask.
There is not currently a recommendation to move to N95 masks, Gonsenhauser said.
However, by definition, an N95 mask provides better protection from aerosols and airborne pathogens to the wearer.
But evidence has not been provided that shows this results in better outcomes for the general population.
Highly vulnerable individualslike the unvaccinated or immunosuppressedmay opt for N95.
Which Mask Should You Use?
But these tighter-fitting masks can also result in discomfort when worn for long periods of time.
Experts said the chart might not be exactly accurate.
This graphic likely underestimates the value of cloth and surgical masks, Vermund said.
Double masking adds multi-ply protection and likely helps with tighter fit of the mask up against the skin.
The CDC made the followingvideo guideto demonstrate how it is done correctly.
Use Mask Fitters
verify your mask is comfortable and creates a tight seal, Gonsenhauser said.
If it does not, consider using a mask fitter.
Beards can make mask fitting difficult.
The CDC recommends checking theNIOSH Certified Equipment Listto identify if your respirator is NIOSH-approved.
Remember that wearing well-fitting face masks is just one part of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
You should take other preventative measures to protect yourself and the people around you.
For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit ourcoronavirus news page.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Types of masks and respirators.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Improve how your mask protects you.
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