Choosing the Right Face Mask: N95 Respirators vs. Surgical Masks
Face masks have become a necessary accessory in our daily lives as we strive to protect ourselves and others from the spread of COVID-19. However, not all face masks are created equal. Two of the most commonly used types of masks are N95 respirators and surgical masks. While both provide some level of protection, there are important differences between the two that should be considered when choosing the right mask for your needs. N95 respirators are designed to protect the wearer from inhaling dangerous particles, including virus particles. These masks are made with a tight-fitting respirator filter that filters out at least 95% of airborne particles. N95 respirators are considered to be the gold standard for personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare settings and are recommended for use by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in healthcare settings. Surgical masks, on the other hand, are designed to protect the patient from the wearer's respiratory droplets...