Is my KN95 a fake?
Time to level up our mask game.
Another letter about masks?? Yes!
We’ve got communities opening up, more kids going back to school, and contagious variants on the way. Time to up-level the masks to continue our personal protection and slow community spread. (Wondering why B.1.1.7 is more contagious? I offer a brief explanation at minute 32 of #mol ep. 2.)
First, a quick review. The best way to not get COVID-19 is to keep the virus out of your body. And remember that the virus is an actual, real, not-fake, not-a-hoax, piece of physical matter; like an actual bit of stuff. When we are unable to stay away from sources of infection (by staying at home or keeping distance from others), we can keep the virus out of our bodies by filtering the stuff out of the air we breathe in.
A simple cloth mask offers us this protection. But if the material that is used is not tightly woven or does not fit well, the virus can slip through.
Increasing the complexity of the physical barrier will offer more protection. Double masking, adding filters, or investing in better quality masks increases the twists and turns the viral particle has to make to get through the barrier. The more twists and turns, the less likely the virus will make it through.
(I couldn’t resist.)
Double masking
Double masking is exactly what it sounds like. It’s wearing two masks at once, layering a cloth mask over a disposable medical mask. This creates solid triple-barrier protection and improves fit. In fact, the CDC recently released a study supporting double masking to increase personal protection and limit spread to others (win-win.)
Tweens and teens are certainly capable of double masking and I would recommend they do so. However, during athletic play and for younger kids, a better option may be a filtered mask.
Filtered mask
The filtered mask may be a better option for toddlers and younger kids since there is less material to fuss with. I think it’s easiest to look for cloth masks with filter pockets. You’ll find lots of these for kids on Etsy and other places. For older kids and adults, Figs makes a nice-fitting filtered option.
Most commonly, the masks will be supplied with PM 2.5 activated charcoal filters. These filters add a layer of protection without the bulk of two masks if the mask fits tightly. Keep in mind, PM 2.5 activated charcoal filters are not reusable and should not be washed. The filter should be replaced after 12 hours of use.
For athletic play, choose a triple layer sports mask with a filter built-in. You’ll find many on Amazon and other retailers.
Respirators
Respirators (N95) are increasingly available and are the best way to clear particles from inhaled air. Respirators are designed for adults as a masking option. Note: There are no respirators that properly fit children. A respirator should have NIOSH-certified markings on the mask and the box, and have bands that secure around the head (NO ear loops.)
A KN95 with ear loops should be listed on an approved database (see below) and should fit very tightly. Although the KN95 is not considered a true respirator in the US, approved and well-fitting KN95’s offer better protection than a surgical mask alone. If you are purchasing masks with ear loops, listed as “KN95-like” or “modeled after a KN95,” these are likely PM filters.
Unfortunately, there are respirators on the market that are fake. Be good consumers! Don’t purchase anything that seems too good to be true, has a shady website, or provides limited contact information. Before purchasing, you can run a search on ppecertification.com or check the NPPTL database to see if the product you found has been listed as counterfeit. Once the product arrives, be sure the respirator is properly marked on both the box and respirator. Here’s a helpful image from the CDC that details what you should see.
DIY
Interestingly, some at-home mask upgrades have been tested. Level up your cloth mask by adding a filter cut from a HEPA vacuum bag or by adding 2 layers of common Kleenex. (Yes, you read that right.) I would not recommend DIY options for routine use, but these are useful to know if you need something in a pinch.
Don’t want to double up?
Then, knot it up. Tying the ear loops into a knot near the mask will create a tighter fit and more protection then wearing the mask without knotted loops. This also may be a great option for kids. Simple.
Masks are easy. Masks work. Masks will help us safe. Let’s maintain our vigilance as we look forward to spring.
As always, growth of this letter and its community is my fuel. If you found something useful, hit the heart and consider sharing on your favorite channels. I would appreciate it!
P. S. - I’ll be live on Insta tonight at 7 pm CST with my gal-pal Dr. Nicole Baldwin for the “Galentine’s Day Edition” of Masks Off Live. We are going to hit some hot-topics and all the things. Can’t make it? I’ll get the highlights on the Pod, and the full, unedited version will post on IGTV after the show! See you then.
