Mask Types

Masks are important for preventing the spread of COVID-19. The combination of masking and up-to-date vaccination can help prevent severe illness.

A mask may be necessary for certain higher risk situations (e.g., caring for someone sick with COVID, crowded indoor or outdoor settings, and not being up to date on vaccinations). People at increased risk for severe disease may also benefit from wearing a mask. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has more information on masks and how to properly wear them.

Before your visit, be sure to review the University of Maryland Medical System's current masking guidelines.

Choosing the Right Mask Type

Not all masks are equally effective at preventing the spread of COVID. You should choose a mask or respirator that:

Offers good protection
Fits properly (closely on the face without any gaps along the edges or around the nose)
Is comfortable and breathable

While any mask is better than no mask, some offer better protection against COVID than others (properly fitting respirators provide the best protection).

N95 and KN95 Masks

Also called respirators, N95s and KN95s are designed for a very close facial fit. If they meet requirements and proper fit is achieved, both can capture and filter at least 95% of tiny particles or aerosols that carry the virus that causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

When COVID is highly prevalent in the community, our experts recommend that all individuals wear a well-fitting, high-quality mask such as a KN95 or N95 mask to protect themselves and everyone around them.

N95 masks meet U.S. standards, and KN95 masks are regulated by China. These masks have either ear loops that fit behind the ears or straps that go around the head. N95s and K95s can be worn for extended use and multiple times. They should be discarded and replaced if they are damaged, wet or soiled. They also should not be worn:

If you can't breathe through them
If they have exhalation valves through which respiratory aerosols carrying COVID-19 can escape (masks with exhalation valves can be worn covered with a surgical mask)

The most widely available respirators that meet an international standard are KN95s, according to the CDC. But beware when shopping for these masks: About 60% of KN95 respirators in the United States are counterfeit (fake) and do not meet National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) requirements. Look for KN95s that meet requirements similar to those set by NIOSH for respirators.

Surgical Mask

Also called disposable masks or medical procedure masks, surgical masks are made of a combination of paper and plastics.

Choose surgical masks that:

Fit properly over your nose, mouth and chin to prevent leaks
Have multiple layers of non-woven material
A nose wire

You can wear a surgical mask underneath a cloth mask for better fit and protection. A mask fitter or brace can also improve the fit.

Cloth Mask

Cloth masks can be made from a variety of fabrics. Many types of cloth masks are available. The best ones:

Fit properly over your nose, mouth and chin to prevent leaks
Have multiple layers of tightly woven, breathable fabric
Have a nose wire
Contain fabric that blocks light when held up to a bright light source

You can combine your cloth mask with a mask fitter or brace for better fit and protection.

Face Shield

The CDC does not recommend the use of face shields as substitutes for face masks for protection against COVID-19.

Face shields are not effective at protecting you and others from respiratory droplets. They have large gaps below and alongside the face through which droplets can escape and reach others around you.

While face shields alone are not effective protection against COVID-19, you can wear a face shield, goggles or other forms of eye protection along with an effective face mask for added protection.

Updated 5/31/2023

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