Face masks can slow down the spread SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes the disease. COVID-19 What? Yes. Yes. Yes. Face masks can be used in conjunction with other preventative measures like vaccinating, hand-washing frequently, and physical distancing to slow down spread of the virus.

  The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends medical masks for health care workers and those with a history or AIDS. COVID-19 For those who care for someone with a disability. COVID-19 .

What's the difference between different types and masks?

Medical masks

These disposable surgical masks can also be known as loose-fitting surgical Masks. These masks protect the wearer from contact with germ-carrying drops and sprays. A medical mask filters large particles from the lungs when the wearer inhales.

Medical masks can be made more fitting by attaching the ear loops to it with a knot. You can fold the material that you don't use under the edges.

N95 Masks

A n95 mask is a type of respirator. An N95 mask is more effective than a medical respirator because it filters small and large particles.

N95 masks can be hard to find so the CDC recommends that they only be used by health care professionals. Health care professionals must pass a fitness test before using N95 masks. They also need to be trained. N95 masks can be used as surgical masks, but they are also disposable. Researchers are currently testing reuse and disinfection methods.

Cloth Masks

A cloth mask traps the droplets that are released from coughing, talking, and sneezing. The mask acts as an obstruction and prevents the wearer from inhaling any droplets released by others.

Cloth masks are extremely effective when made of multiple layers of tightly woven fabric such as cotton. The layers will keep more droplets out of your mask.

How to get maximum use of your mask

You can improve the effectiveness and comfort of cloth and medical masks by making sure they fit properly to your face. This will prevent air from leaking around the edges.

The mask should be snugly fitted over the nose, mouth, chin, and ears. Warm air should come out of the mask's face when you inhale.

A nose strip that bends can prevent air from getting to the top of the mask.

Some prefer to wear a disposable mask under their cloth mask. If this is the case the disposable mask should be placed against the cloth mask. Do not add layers if they make it difficult for you to breathe or block out your vision.

Your masks' effectiveness in protecting you will depend on how they are stored. These are the steps you need to follow in order to remove your mask.

Wash your hands before and after you apply your mask.

* Place your mask over your nose, mouth, and chin.

You can tie it behind your ears or use ear loops to secure it. It should fit snugly.

* Take care of your mask.

If you touch your mask, wash your hands.

If your mask becomes stained or wet, you can switch to a different mask. You can either dispose
Wash the mask and seal it in a bag.

* The mask can be removed by removing the ties or lifting it from your ears.

Wash your hands immediately after removing the mask.

Regularly wash cloth masks in the washing machine or by hand. You can wash them with
The rest of your laundry.

It is important to remember these precautions:

* Don't put masks on those who are unconscious, have difficulty breathing or have trouble swallowing.
You are unable or unwilling to remove the mask.

Masks should not be worn by children under 2 years of age.

* Face masks are not recommended for use as a substitute for physical distancing.