What are N95 masks? What you need to know
As the Omicron variant continues to affect residents across the state and national experts recommend the use of a “stronger” masks, state residents might be wondering how N95 masks work, where can they find them and how can they spot if they are fake.
N95 masks are “respirator” masks approved by the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. Unlike cloth and surgical masks, N95 masks filter up to 95 percent of particles in the air, according to the CDC. Also, these masks can’t be washed and they are most effective because of their tight fit to the individual's face.
Here is what you need to know about N95 masks:
How long do N95 masks last?
While every manufacturer sets different expiration dates for N95 masks — For example, 3M gives their masks a “shelf life” of five years — N95 masks don’t expire. But a tear in the elastic headband is a concern, according to Berkeley Public Health’s Dr. John Balmes’ statement to Business Insider.
Can I reuse N95 masks?
The FDA recommends N95 masks to be worn only once. However, if individuals must use the masks more than use, they should inspect prior to use and not utilize if there are concerns of damage in the elastic or fabric.
How much do they cost?
N95 masks are around $1 to $3 per mask. However, they usually come in packages of 10 or more masks. Due to the effectiveness of the masks, they tend to be more expensive than surgical masks.
Where can I find N95 masks?
Brick and mortar retailers such as The Home Depot and Tractor Supplies Co. offer a wide variety of N95 masks. Online providers other than Amazon include N95 Medical Supplies, N95 Mask Co,Bonafide masks, Project N95 and Well Before.
What is the difference between a KN95 and a N95 mask?
While KN95 and N95 masks look very similar, there are a few of key differences between the two. Most importantly, KN95 masks are not FDA approved since they don't go through the NIOSH approval process. KN95 are approved by Chinese standards and have an effectiveness rate of 95 percent of 0.3 micron particles, according to the CDC.
Additionally, there is a big surge of fake KN95 masks in the United States. According to the CDC, about 60 percent of KN95 masks being sold in the country are fake.
Since there weren't enough N95 masks at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC allowed KN95 to be used by healthcare facilities as a “crisis capacity strategy.” However, as of May 2021, the CDC doesn't recommend the use of non NIOSH-approved masks such as KN95.
How can I identify a fake N95 mask?
NIOSH-approved masks have an approval label that should begin with “TC” and a NIOSH logo printed on the mask. Other indicators include the misspelling of the word “NIOSH,” decorative addons and the use of ear loops instead of headbands. Visit the CDC website for a list of counterfeit N95 masks.
Who shouldn't use an N95 mask?
N95 masks are the most effective masks against COVID-19 and the omicron variant. However, they are not the best for everyone. Children younger than 2 years old, people with certain types of facial hair and individuals who have trouble breathing shouldn't use N95 masks, according to the CDC.