January 17, 2022
New Mask Guidance and N95 Masks to Buy
In early January 2022 amid the omicron variant wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its guidance on mask-wearing as a preventative measure to catch and spread the virus.
The CDC now says that cloth masks may not provide adequate protection against omicron, so you can either double up a cloth mask with a surgical mask or opt for a N95 or KN95 mask that has more layers and offers more protection—as long as it fits properly and there are no spaces between your skin and the mask itself.
But these masks can be hard to find in local retailers, and buying online always comes with a risk that you will get a counterfeit product that will not provide adequate protection.
If you’re planning on upgrading your mask, Centers Healthcare has a look at N95s that are getting the best reviews.
- Kimberly-Clark N95 Pouch Respirator
This mask resembles a duck’s bill, and that extra space is useful for allowing more air to filter through and make it easier for breathing. You can find these for a little over a dollar per mask.
- WellBefore N95 Respirator Mask
This mask is more circular in shape but also provides plenty of room inside to breathe. It also has adjustable headbands to make for a snug fit. These are available from the manufacturer at $2 per mask.
- Powecom KN95 Mask
This mask comes in two versions: one that loops around the ears like a surgical or cloth mask ($12 for 10 masks) and another that ges around the head ($15 for 10 masks). Both also come with nose clips to close the gap at the top (and prevent your glasses from fogging up!).
