The outbreak of a novel corona virus (SARS-CoV-2) has caused a worldwide pandemic of respiratory illness, called COVID-19. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in China in December 2019. As the world learns more about COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2, we now know that both can cause severe respiratory illness in people of all ages.
The best line of defense against this virus is to prevent exposure by wearing a properly fitted N95 respirator mask. N95 masks are tight-fitting masks that filter out at least 95% of small and large airborne particles, including viruses, bacteria, and dust. N95 masks are tested and certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to ensure they filter out at least 95% of airborne particles.
Why Are N95 Masks So Important?
N95 masks are the best protection against COVID-19 because they filter out at least 95% of all airborne particles, including viruses, bacteria, and dust. In fact, the name “N95” comes from the fact that these masks can filter out at least 95% of all particles that are at least 0.3 microns in size. For perspective, a human hair is about 70 microns in diameter. So an N95 mask will filter out almost all particles that you may come in contact with during your daily activities.
While N95 masks are the best protection against COVID-19, they are also in very high demand and there is currently a global shortage. However, face masks (including cloth face coverings) can help slow the spread of COVID-19 when worn correctly and consistently by people who have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with symptoms.
As we learn more about COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2, it is clear that both can cause severe respiratory illness in people of all ages. The best line of defense against this virus is to prevent exposure by wearing a properly fitted N95 respirator mask. And while there is currently a global shortage of N95 masks, face masks (including cloth face coverings) can help slow the spread of COVID-19 when worn correctly and consistently by people who have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with symptoms.
Conclusion:
COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that has caused a worldwide pandemic of respiratory illness. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this virus is to wear a properly fitted N95 respirator mask. While there is currently a global shortage of these masks, face masks (including cloth face coverings) can help slow the spread of COVID-19 when worn correctly and consistently by people who have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with symptoms.
It is important to remember that masks are not a substitute for social distancing and good hygiene.
It is also important to practice proper hand hygiene, avoid touching your face and eyes, and frequently clean commonly used surfaces such as doorknobs, countertops, tables, phones, keyboards etc. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, avoid large gatherings, and practice social distancing (staying 6 feet away from other people).
Finally, stay informed of the latest developments regarding COVID-19. Follow instructions from your local public health authorities, follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and keep up with news updates in order to make informed decisions about your health and safety. Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect ourselves and our communities.