EARTH FUTURE ACTION
One of the key facts that has not been emphasized enough during this crisis is that N95 masks (and equivalent masks) offer the best protection since they filter out 95% of airborne particles. We also recommend KN95 masks and FFP2 masks as well. The FFP2 masks being used in Europe are similar to N95 masks in the U.S. FFP2 masks filter 94% of airborne particles. The KN95 China standard masks filter out 95% of airborne particles.
People should be wearing these protective masks if they wish to avoid the virus. Surgical masks do not offer the same level of protection as N95 masks. Cloth masks offer even less protection than surgical masks.
In Germany, they have made FFP2 masks mandatory in hospitals, nursing homes, and doctors' offices. We believe what Germany is doing is a step in the right direction.
In the U.S., on the other hand, the Centers for Disease Control has changed its guidelines on mandatory masking in health care settings, no longer recommending that masks be universal. It is our view that this is a dangerous mistake.
The death toll from Covid in the U.S. has reached over 1 million people. Covid is also very widespread right now.
It is time for action. It is time to increase access to N95 masks.
When putting on the mask, make sure it is facing the correct direction and do not put your fingers on the inside of the mask. Also, try not to re-use disposable surgical masks. They are not meant for re-use.
RESOURCES ON MASKS
N95 Respirators, Surgical Masks, Face Masks, and Barrier Face Coverings (FDA)
Approved N95 Manufacturer List (CDC)
What’s the Difference Between N95 and KN95 Masks? (Smart Filters)
MASKS FOR SALE
N95 Mask for Sale - NIOSH Approved Safety Face Mask Respirator
NEWS ARTICLES
New German COVID-19 rules come into force as infections rise in colder months (DW, 10-1-22)
CDC: Masking No Longer Required in Health Care Settings (Web MD, 9-28-22)