Do face masks such as Kn95 mask and N95 mask slow the spread of the coronavirus  that causes COVID-19? Indeed. Combining face masks with other preventive measures, such as getting vaccinated, frequent hand washing, and physical separation can help slow the spread of the virus.

What Are The Different Types Of Masks And How Do They Work?

  • Medical masks

Surgical masks are loose-fitting disposable masks. Wearing them protects the wearer from germs in sprays and droplets. When the wearer breathes in, a medical mask also filters out large particles in the air.

If you want to make medical masks more form-fitting, knot the ear loops at their points of attachment. Fold and tuck the excess material under the edges

  • N95 masks

N95 mask is a type of respirator. By filtering out both large and small particles when the wearer inhales, it offers greater protection than a medical mask.

In light of the short supply of N95 masks, the health associations have suggested the masks should be reserved for medical personnel. Before using an N95 mask, health care providers must undergo training and pass a fit test. Masks made of N95 are meant to be disposable, just as surgical masks are. Researchers are testing ways to disinfect and reuse them, however.

There are some N95 masks that have valves that make breathing through them easier. Some cloth masks also have valves. 

Cloth masks

The purpose of a cloth mask is to capture respiratory droplets released by the wearer when he or she talks, coughs, or sneezes. Additionally, it protects the wearer from inhaling droplets released by others.

Cloth masks are most effective when made of multiple layers of tightly woven fabric, like cotton. By using layers, you will prevent more droplets from escaping or getting through your mask.

How To Get The Most From Your Mask?

You can improve the effectiveness of cloth and medical masks by ensuring that they are well fitted to your face to prevent air leakage around their edges.

Masks should fit snugly over the nose, mouth, and chin, without gaps. The front of the mask should be filled with warm air when you breathe out. If you feel air escaping under the mask, it shouldn't be coming out.

Masks with bendable nose strips prevent air from escaping through the top of the mask.

Some people wear disposable masks under their cloth masks. As a result, the edges of the disposable mask should be pressed against the cloth mask. Adding layers that interfere with your breathing or obstruct your vision is not a good idea.

How well masks protect you depends on the way they are used, stored, and cleaned. Put your mask on and take it off by following these steps:

  1. Wash or sanitize your hands before and after you put on your mask.
  2. Mask-wearers should place their masks over their mouth, nose and face
  3. You can tie it behind your head or use ear loops. Make sure it's snug.
  4. Wear your mask without touching it
  5. Wash or sanitize your hands if you accidentally touch your mask.
  6. Whenever you change to a dirty or wet mask, you should do so as soon as possible. Put the used mask in a sealable bag until you can dispose of it or wash it.
  7. You can remove the mask by untying it or by lifting off the ear loops without touching your face or the mask's front.
  8. After removing your mask, wash your hands immediately.
  9. Keep your cloth masks clean by regularly washing them in the washer or by hand. 
Author's Bio: 

AccuMed is part of a generation of advanced high quality health and at home personal care products which are bridging the gap between innovation, ease of use and affordability.