The spread of the COVID 19 disease has raised public health awareness around the globe in the past two years. Since cases have been significantly dwindling due to high vaccination rates, most establishments have been reopened but with precautionary measures. And probably, the most common health protocol implemented worldwide is the wearing of face masks in public places.
Although it’s not an absolute solution to the pandemic, face masks are the cheapest way we can further impede the transmission of disease. Below are additional facts you should know about face masks.
Table of Contents
KN95 Facemasks
First and foremost, we have to discuss the face mask that offers the best protection. There are several types of face masks that you have to take note of. Two of the most popular ones are the N95 and KN95. Each of them is practically the same, with the only exception that KN95 has better airflow and better inhalation resistance. It means that they’re highly breathable and perfect for long travels.
But the problem with face masks is that they’re often generic. And if you’re looking for a face mask that’s likely to suit your style, then it’s highly suggested to go for a black KN95 bulk so you won’t run out of them whenever you go out.
Bandanas and Neck Gaiters are not the Best Options
You might have observed people using bandanas or neck gaiters instead of the traditional face mask. Also, you might have noticed authorities not reprimanding them in any way because they still basically cover your mouth and nose.
Although they somehow improve your overall style, it isn’t the best alternative because of their poor filtering property, according to the research conducted by the Missouri S&T. The weaves of these items are simply loose, which would lead particles to easily pass through the cloth.
Knitted Face Masks May Not Be the Best Alternative Either
Face masks that are purely made of fabric may not be enough to protect you and the people around you from harmful pathogens. Again, it stems from the fact that most fabric weaves are loose, which would not simply suffice in impeding the release of bacteria when you happen to sneeze or cough in public.
Also, fabric face masks that are knitted together from cloths are not reliable, which could be loose and expose your nose and mouth when it’s frequently stretched. Such an instance will also lead to holes getting bigger and much faster for the bacteria to transmit from person to person.
Using Filters May Not Be as Effective
To somehow improve the efficacy of knitted face masks, many manufacturers are adding a pouch to the item where they can place a filter inside. Although it may sound reasonable, it may not be as effective as many believe it to be. And the use of filters could endanger you even further.
Some filters like air filters, vacuum bags, and wet wipes contain fiberglass particles and toxic elements which could be hazardous to your health. Also, these materials could lose their effectiveness in just a few hours or so. What this means is that it could no longer protect you from the elements.
The Face Mask Must Be Snugly Fitted in Your Face
Last but not least is that you have to ensure that the face mask snugly fits the contours of your face. It must cover all entries to the nose and mouth so that there will be no way for harmful pathogens to enter your system. Specialized face masks like the KN95 and N95 have a small wire located in their upper section. This feature allows you to shape it according to the curves of your face.
This kind of feature is apparently lacking in neck gaiters, bandanas, and face masks that were made of knitted clothes. There’s nothing wrong with them, and they can still provide some level of prevention, but if you’re looking for better protection, then it’s highly recommended to opt for unwoven and surgical face masks.
Final Thoughts
Face masks are an absolute necessity in this pandemic. Although the vaccination is developing rapidly, the wearing of face masks in public may still continue for many years to come until the transmission of COVID 19 has been neutralized.
Vaccination does offer significant help in preventing the spread of the disease. However, it still doesn’t give you the full assurance of protection because you may be a carrier or contract the disease if the vaccine lapses. With this being said—you always have to carry your face mask with you and wear them whenever you are in closed or public spaces.
