Curious about which type of mask is best to prevent a COVID infection?
A recent study found N95 and KN95 masks are the two types that provide the best protection against COVID, announced the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on February 4. To keep the public on top of mask-wearing, the Biden administration announced its intention to give away 400 millions N95 masks for free in a recent press conference.
With a filtration rate of 95%, the N95 mask is one you’ll want to get your hands on ASAP.
Want to know more about the N95 masks and where to get your free ones? Read on.
What is an N95 Mask?
An N95 mask is a disposable filtering facepiece respirator with two straps. The “N” stands for the mask’s Respirator Rating Letter Class. In this case, it means “Non-Oil” meaning if no oil-based particles are present, you can use the mask safely in the work environment and public settings.
These masks are not for protecting against gases or vapors.
How is it Different From a Cloth Mask?
An N95 will be more form-fitting to your face compared to a cloth mask. Compared to a cloth mask, the N95 will also protect the wearer from harmful airborne viruses or particles. The CDC states an N95 mask “filters at least 95% of airborne particles.”
Additionally, recent studies found both N95 and KN95 masks were found to reduce positive COVID tests by 83 percent. That’s compared to 66% for surgical masks and 56% for cloth masks, according to a real-world study published by the CDC.
Where Can I Get a Free N95 Mask?
On January 19, the Biden administration announced its intention to give away 400 millions N95 masks for free to the American people starting the last week of January. These masks can be picked up at community health centers and pharmacies such as CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Kroger, and other large retailers.
Each person is limited to three masks.
Additionally, four free COVID testing kits are available per household. Those can be ordered at www.covidtests.gov.
How Many Times Can I Reuse a N95 Mask?
While you can’t keep using your same N95 mask forever, you can reuse it up to five times or up to 40 hours. Experts recommend switching the mask out everyday and rotating them if you have more than one. Wash your hands before and after touching the mask and before storing it away in a cool, dry area.
Reasons to toss your N95 mask:
- It gets damp or wet
- It’s visibly soiled or stained
- The straps are stretched out
- The mask is starting to fray
- You’ve been near someone with COVID
Note: Never wash an N95 mask, either. Doing so may break down the material that traps virus particles.
Who Makes N95 Masks?
Not surprisingly, several manufacturers make different styles of the N95 masks. Those companies include Honeywell, 3M, Moldex, and Draeger.
Public health officials warned the public that counterfeit N95 masks that may be sold online aren’t as effective as ones from a reputable manufacturer. Look for the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) approval number and you’ll know you have an authentic mask on your hands.
Protect Your Workplace, Home, and Community
If you’re looking for more protection from the COVID virus, consider picking up your free N95 mask today.
Most retailers offering the free COVID vaccine also offer the masks.
Since going back to work, enjoying public places, and socializing is all part of going back to normal, masking up is still one of the easiest ways to stop COVID from shutting it all down again.
Keep an eye out next time you’re out and pick up your three free masks at your nearest participating pharmacy. Upon pick-up, you’ll likely see fliers around with a QR code that can be scanned. The code will provide details on how to properly fit — and remove — your new mask.
Have you gotten your free N95 mask? How does it compare to wearing a cloth or other style mask for you? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
