How Face Masks Work and Which Types Offer the Best Covid-19 Protection
Abstracts：Face masks are a simple way to help prevent the spread of the new coronavirus through talking, coughing or sneezing, scientists and public-health specialists say. But they need to be worn properly. While some types of masks are more effecti...
Face masks are a simple way to help prevent the spread of the new coronavirus through talking, coughing or sneezing, scientists and public-health specialists say. But they need to be worn properly.
While some types of masks are more effective than others, public-health officials say any face covering—even a bandanna—is better than nothing.
Here’s how different types of masks stack up, and how they are meant to be used.
Cut from different cloth
Common masks fall into three categories: cloth masks or coverings like gaiters, intended to prevent an infected person from spreading the virus by catching large droplets; surgical masks, with a more sophisticated design also meant to prevent the wearer from spreading diseases; and N95 masks, which protect the wearer as well, and fit tightly to the face.
- Typically homemade
- Style and materials vary widely
- Prevents wearer from spreading disease
- Work in herd-immunity: the more wear masks,
the more effective they are
- Wash after use
Surgical
- Loose fit
- Prevents wearer from spreading disease
- Dispose after use
- Made from a material called polypropylene
N95
- Tight fit, must be fit tested
- Protects wearer if fitted properly
- Limited quantity
