We are facing one of the most tumultuous times in human history. Since the emergence of COVID-19, life has not been smooth sailing. The pandemic has had its toll on human beings, claiming millions of lives while crippling most economic activities.
One of the recommended ways of combating its spread is wearing mask—these protective garments aid in protecting you from contracting the virus. There are different types of masks available in the market, each designed to provide different protection levels. N95 masks are the most coveted amongst them because of their high levels of protection against COVID-19 infection.
What Are N95 Masks?
Also known as n95 respirators, they are made using multiple layers of synthetic fiber (polypropylene plastic polymer), enhancing their ability to filter out hazardous particles such as dust and germs, micro-organisms, and other pathogens.
The mask’s edges have a unique design that enables them to seal your nose and mouth region perfectly. Moreover, their elastic straps ensure that they are firmly held onto your face for hours on end.
N95’s expert design earned them approval by CDC, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and the FDA ( Food and Drug Administration); see more to buy high-quality N95 masks. You can therefore rest easy when wearing these masks that your chances of getting COVID-19 infection are minimal.
Reasons Why You Need To Buy N95?
They provide unparalleled protection
N95 have undergone numerous rigorous tests, all of which confirm that they are well suited to protect you from COVID-19, among other airborne and flu-related pandemics. These masks meet the CDC guidelines for exposure control. They have a 160mmHg barrier ranking which conforms to ASTM F1862 requirements for splash resistance and fluid penetration.
It attains this because of its 95% ability to filter contaminants such as viruses, bacteria, and particles such as dust. As such, you can confidently wear them knowing that you are protected from micron size airborne particulates that cause COVID-19.
Allergy-free and Fuss Free
The N95 are made using non-woven plastic synthetic fibers. These fibers are subjected to an electrostatic charge to improve their ability to filter out impurities. They are also made using steel for the staples and aluminum that gives the nose clips their bend’s ability.
You, therefore, don’t have to worry about allergic reactions; suppose you are allergic to materials such as latex, silicone, and PVC, which are used in making other types.
Available in molded and flat mold options
You can choose between the two designs of this mask depending on the comfort you seek and your preferences. Here is a breakdown of the two designs to help you make your choice:
Molded N95 mask
- They are lightweight. As such, you won’t be fatigued while wearing them.
- It has a rigid outer cover that prevents the mask from collapsing.
- Its inner layers are designed using a soft fabric that is friendly to the skin. You can therefore wear them for long periods without experiencing any discomfort.
- Molded n95 have contours with the natural shape of the face. This feature enables them to reduce pressure on your face and the need to fiddle with their metal nose clip.
Flat N95 masks
- It has a softer inner layer that maximizes comfort as you go about your business while wearing this mask.
- Elastic head straps that hold them firmly on your face.
- Their universal shape enables them to fit almost all types of face shapes and sizes.
- The outer layers of these ones are suited to keep off different types of particles.
- Enhanced Filtering Ability.
Most masks use mechanical filtration, such as diffusion, to keep off impurities. You can don such masks in places where you stand less chance of contracting the disease.
The filtration ability of the N95 is enhanced. Apart from using mechanical filtration, these ones also use electrostatic filtering. This type of filtering employs electric charges that attract and ensnare micro-organisms as small as 0.3 microns.
These include fluid droplets containing viruses, bacteria, and other harmful substances—no wonder they are recommended for healthcare workers and other frontline workers when handling COVID-19 related cases.
N95 masks are arguably the most tight-fitting ones
To effectively protect yourself from getting COVID-19, you need a mask that tightly fits your face such that no impurities can seep in via the side openings. N95’s design enables them to fit your face perfectly. They properly seal your face and nasal areas. N95’s tight fit makes them suitable to be worn in high hazard areas during the pandemic.
Can I Use N95 Respirators?
N95 are reusable; however, different factors determine whether or not they can be reused. If you wear it in low-risk areas and are still in pristine condition, there will be little harm in reusing them. Below is an outline of instances where you’ll need to dispose of your mask:
It would be best if you discarded them following use in an aerosol-generating procedure.
Please dispose of your mask when exposed to impurities such as blood, nasal secretions, or other bodily fluids.
Discard your masks following close contact with a person infected with COVID-19 or after visiting places with a high prevalence of the pandemic.
Discard your N95 when they are dirty from various impurities or when they show any signs of degradation.
The superiority of n95 masks over others is irrefutable. These masks are expertly crafted to protect you from COVID-19 infection. Though they are costly compared to other masks, their effectiveness makes them worthwhile.
That said, you still need to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to minimize the chances of contracting the virus. Furthermore, you need to adhere to the CDC guidelines, such as adhering to the social distance regulations, washing your hands with alcohol-based disinfectants, visiting a medical facility when you experience any signs of the virus, and avoiding crowds, among other measures.
