a bad material to make air filters from,” Sear said in a journal news release.
“In contrast, the filtering layer of an N95 mask is made from much smaller, 5-micrometer fibers with gaps that are 10 times smaller, making it much better for filtering nasty particles from the air, such as those containing virus,” Sear explains.
The signs of a good mask
Sear notes that good masks should feature the “two Fs: good filtration and good fit.”
“Surgical masks fit badly, so a lot of air goes unfiltered past the edges of the mask by the cheeks and nose,” Sear says.
RELATED: 3 Things to Consider With Mask Mandates Lifting
Knowing when to wear a mask
With mask mandates lifting in most places, it’s important to know when and how to protect yourself. Visit COVID-19 Community Levels, a tool to help communities decide what prevention steps to take based on the latest data.
RELATED: CDC Loosens Mask Guidelines as Omicron Surge Subsides
Additionally, this guide, provided by the CDC, will help you determine when you should consider wearing a face mask: