What the CDC Found About Wearing Two Masks?

Research by CDC suggests that wearing two specific types of masks offers better protection against COVID-19.

Recent research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that wearing a cloth mask on top of a surgical mask offers more protection against the COVID-19 virus. Tying knots on the ear loops of surgical masks to tighten it also provides extra protection. //

Disposable masks are designed to stop the aerosol particles coming out of the wearer’s mouth and also protect from splashes, not to offer a perfect seal. This results in the sides hanging loose and open. Therefore, the CDC advises making sure the mask fits snugly against your face and choosing a mask with at least two layers for optimal protection.

Efficiency of Different Masks in Protecting People Against COVID-19
Efficiency of 14 different face masks and covering in preventing the spread of viral droplets, were evaluated by a group of researchers. They used a simple, cost-effective method.

‘Masks that were modified to fit better reduced the receiver's exposure by more than 95% compared to no mask at all’
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The study simulated coughs and breathing and investigated how different masks (no mask, a cloth mask, and a surgical mask) worked to block aerosol particles. In addition, two methods to optimize the fit of cloth and medical masks were also tested. The methods involved - a) Wearing a cloth mask over a surgical mask, and b) Tying knots on the ear loops of surgical masks and then tucking in and flattening the extra material against the face.

Findings showed that having both the source and the receiver wear masks that were modified to fit better reduced the receiver's exposure by more than 95% compared to no mask at all.

Results also revealed that both methods were substantial in improving protection against transmission of and exposure to infectious aerosols.

Single Use N95 Masks can be Decontaminated and Used Again
N95 masks can be decontaminated and used again up to three times based on the method of decontamination. The integrity of the masks fit and seal should be maintained.

Rochelle Walensky, CDC Director, stated, "In the study, wearing any mask performed significantly better than not wearing a mask, and well-fitting masks provided the greatest performance at both blocking emitted aerosols and exposure of aerosols to the receiver.”

However, it is not recommended to combine two disposable masks. The CDC says, "Disposable masks are not designed to fit tightly and wearing more than one will not improve fit." A KN95 should be used alone, the CDC adds.

Mask Effectiveness Against Viral Droplets: Study
Effectiveness of different types of masks were evaluated using simple techniques to find the best suited mask to prevent the spread of droplets that could contain SARS-CoV-2 virus particles.

It should also be noted that all of the CDC’s testing was done by pairing 3-ply cloth masks with 3-ply medical masks; CDC did not comment about stacking two cloth masks.

The CDC recommends the following guidelines to improve mask fit:-

Face Masks Down Spread of COVID-19; Types, Duration of Use Vital
Pandemic could be stopped if at least 70% of the public wore face masks consistently. Types of masks used and duration of use matters more.

1) Wearing a mask with a nose wire to prevent air from leaking out from the top.

2) Using a mask fitter or brace over a disposable or cloth mask to cinch the and create a tighter fit and improve mask performance.

3) Mask should fit snugly over the nose, mouth, and chin - If it has a good fit, warm air will come through the mask's front, and the mask material moving in and out with each breath will be visible.

4) Add layers of material using a cloth mask with multiple layers of fabric or by wearing a disposable mask under a cloth mask.

The CDC performed its tests in a simulated lab setting, so even though double-masking may provide more protection from Covid exposure, it needs to be paired with other pandemic precautions like social distancing, regular sanitization, and avoidance of crowded places.

Source-Medindia