Experts in public safety warn that single-layer cloth masks are not sufficient to protect against COVID-19. This is especially true when they are used to cover the Omicron variant's face. It is better to have some coverage than none.

COVID can travel by air so it is important to have a quality mask. A single-layer cloth mask will not protect you against the Omicron variant, which is highly contagious. It is therefore crucial that we upgrade our masks. A simple cloth mask is not sufficient to provide protection.

Google searches for "mask", N95, and "particulate respirator types" are expected to rise in 2021. "Where can I buy mask ?" Search was one of the top 10 most popular "where can i buy" searches over the past year.

When you're in enclosed spaces, like planes, mass transit or indoor celebrations such as the upcoming New Year’s Eve parties, KN95 or KF94 masks are recommended. These masks are vital in the fight against a highly contagious strain.

Dr. Jerome Adams stated that there is a need for better masks around the world. A one-layer cloth mask doesn't work against microns. We need more testing. We need better masking.

At Ghislaine Maxwell’s trial, the judge ordered that all persons present at Manhattan's courthouse must wear N95 masks or masks of comparable high quality starting Monday. He noted that "obviously, we have the variant" to consider. Throughout the trial jurors were wearing cloth or surgical masks.

New York City distributes 1,000,000 KN95 masks and 500,000 KN95 testing kits to community-based groups as a result if an increase in the number of cases. This includes nearly 50,000 Christmas Eve.

Bernie Sanders, a Vermont Senator, tweeted: "As Omicron variants rapidly spread, we must remember that not all masks can be equal."

Traps smaller particles

Why is "95" so special? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, N95 respirators (also known as masks) have been approved by U.S. National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. They can filter at least 95% all airborne particles.

KN95 Mask are similar, but not the same. KN95 refers to the Chinese standard. N95 Mask is the American standard. KN95 mask makers can apply for an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to allow them to use their products within healthcare settings. Many KN95 masks have received EUAs from the FDA.

The KF94 masks filters 94% of aerosol particles. They also meet South Korea's standards. They have not been granted EUA by the FDA for use in healthcare settings.

Although cloth masks filter larger droplets of water better than other types, aerosols and particles that may carry viruses could still pass through them. According to the CDC cloth masks are more effective than wearing no mask. Multi-layered cloth masks can block fine particles between 50% and 70%. The N95s can filter 95% particles.

Experts recommend double-masking with a three-ply surgical mask and a cloth to improve the effectiveness of your cloth or surgical masks. A minimum of three-ply surgical masks should be worn by everyone.

There are many imitations

Online, you can find counterfeit N95/KN95 masks. A guide has been published by the government on how to distinguish real masks from fake NIOSH-approved ones. NIOSH also provides a list N95 respirators that can be purchased in certain home improvement stores and drugstores.