The mask should cover the nose and mouth.
A mask that fits well on the face and is made of dense fabric has the best protection against coronavirus infection. Respirators like the N95 are also extremely effective.
This is reported by “Voice of America” with reference to US epidemiologists.
As noted, the mask should fit snugly to the face, with no gaps along the edges or around the nose. Personal protective equipment should also be comfortable enough.
A mask or respirator will be less effective if it does not fit well, or if it is not properly worn or removed frequently.
In particular, masks made of dense fabric folded in several layers provide more protection. Surgical masks and KN95 can provide the best protection.
NIOSH-approved respirators like the N95 provide the highest level of protection. But less effective for protection are masks made of loosely woven fabric.
“The respirator provides better filtration and, if worn correctly throughout the entire duration of use, it can provide a higher level of protection than a cloth mask or treatment mask,” the experts say.
“The best defense against Omicron is masks plus vaccines plus a booster,” the CDC added.
Recall, the researchers found that men and women look more attractive in masks. The most attractive are men in a blue medical mask.