How effective is your mask? Here's a list of the worst and best masks
Wearing a face mask is one of the many preventative measures proposed by the World Health Organisation and while we all have masks, is yours the right one?
Scientists have proven time and time again that it is important to wear a face mask in order to combat contracting COVID-19.
In response, we have had this question posed by our listeners before: how effective is the face mask?
Well, here is a list of the best and worst masks:
- Medical-grade masks, N99 and N95, are the most effective at filtering viral particles.
- Coming in second is the disposable surgical masks
- When it comes to homemade masks, "hybrid" masks are the safest option.
According to a study in the UK, combining two layers of 600-thread-count cotton with another material like silk, chiffon, or flannel – filtered more than 80 percent of small particles.
- Homemade masks with three layers of cotton or silk are also highly effective
READ: Prof de Oliveira sheds light on increasing Covid19 cases and new Swine Flu
While wrapping yourself with a cloth will protect you, it is not effective enough.
For more information on the effectiveness of a face mask, bioinformatician and virus hunter, Prof Tulio de Oliveira explains. Listen to the podcast below to learn more:
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