This is why these masks typically have an adjustable nose wire for a better fit. "Make sure it fits snugly, without gaps around your nose, face and mouth," Bollinger said. Whether you're wearing an N95, a KN95 or a KF94, it won't be effective unless the face mask fits your face properly and you can wear it consistently, the CDC says. Bob Bollinger, professor of infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and founder of Emocha Health. "I would recommend a high-quality KF94 or KN95 for high-risk situations," said Dr. (Neither KN95s nor KF94s are NIOSH-approved.) Another alternative is the KF94, the South Korean equivalent to an N95, which has a slightly different shape and 94% filtration efficacy. KN95s are made from the same material as N95s and are also designed to filter at least 95% of airborne particles. One popular alternative to the N95 is the KN95 respirator, which is the Chinese equivalent of the US standard. The CDC recommends N95s labeled "surgical" for health care personnel. Joseph Health and author of Immunity Strong. Bob Lahita, director of the Institute for Autoimmune and Rheumatic Disease at St. "An N95 is the best, if you can get it," said Dr. These include N95 respirators, a disposable face covering that filters out at least 95% of airborne particles. cloth masksĪccording to the CDC's updated guidance, a well-fitting respirator that is approved by the the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health offers the "highest level of protection" out of any face covering. Read more: 7 COVID-19 face mask myths putting people at risk today Disposable N95, KN95, KF94 masks vs. Their advice is below, followed by some updated recommendations based on their expertise. We talked to two infectious disease specialists to determine the best face mask and face covering to protect yourself against the coronavirus in 2022, given the rapidly changing landscape. 14, clarifying that "loosely woven cloth products provide the least protection." Surgical masks and KN95s provide more protection, while approved and well-fitting respirators such as N95s provide the most protection, the CDC says. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its mask guidance on Jan. And because the omicron variant is so contagious, many experts have cautioned that cloth masks don't cut it anymore. The omicron variant may be more successful at evading vaccine protection and causing breakthrough COVID-19 infections, but vaccines are still highly effective at preventing hospitalizations and death.Įxperts agree that wearing a face mask is an effective way to slow the spread of COVID-19 infection by way of virus particles, regardless of your vaccination status. This variant is even more contagious than delta, which was already twice as contagious as earlier COVID-19 strains.īefore discussing masks, it's important to underline that the best way to protect yourself against severe COVID-19 disease is to get vaccinated, including getting your booster shot as soon as you're eligible. For the most up-to-date news and information about the coronavirus pandemic, visit the WHO and CDC websites.Īs a result of the omicron variant's startling spread, face masks have made a comeback, including local and federal mask mandates.