The Deal with Double Face Coverings
With great confidence, we know that wearing a face covering reduces the chance that you—and others around you—will be exposed to respiratory droplets containing the virus that causes COVID-19. Newly released research from the CDC demonstrates that wearing a cloth face covering over a surgical-style face covering has the potential to reduce exposure to infectious aerosols by about 95% as does wearing a surgical face covering with the ear loops knotted for a tighter fit. The key is how snugly the mask fits.
Tips to Make Your Face Covering More Protective
- Nose-bridge wires ensure a tight seal. For this reason, the CDC recommends choosing masks with a nose wire, or a metal strip along the top.
- The CDC’s “knot and tuck” technique also reduces air leaks. Check out this how-to video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UANi8Cc71A0&feature=youtu.be
- Wearing a cloth face covering over a surgical one can block more than 92% of coughed particles. The surgical face covering acts as a filter while the cloth one helps to ensure a tight seal.
- When in doubt, check for gaps by cupping your hands around the edges while you breathe in and out. Poor-fitted face coverings will have gaps at the top or bottom, or along the sides. That’s why public-health expertsadvise against using bandanas or scarves as face coverings.
Things to avoid
- Avoid combining two disposable face coverings. Disposable coverings are not designed to fit tightly and wearing more than one will not improve fit.
- Avoid combining a KN95 face covering with any other face covering. Only use one KN95 face covering at a time.[1]
Remember: A good fit is important to maximize overall face covering performance. The best face covering is one that fits properly and is worn properly!
Enjoy this short video on staying vigilant during the pandemic.
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/effective-masks.html