Omicron coronavirus, a highly infectious variant of coronavirus, is right in front of us. You have two options: go inside or mask yourself. Any mask won’t work. Any mask, handkerchief or silk mask will not block the coronavirus. The best way to stop it is with a non-woven N95 or KN95 mask. Cover the mask with a second layer. If you need to get out quickly, here are some details.

What’s an N95 respirator?

The N95 respirator effectively filters out harmful particles to protect your nose. You can adjust the device’s edges to fit snugly around your nose. This seal prevents air from escape. The filters trap particulate matter and bacteria. This process removes 95 percent of the 0.3 micron particles from the air thanks to the multilayered polypropylene fiber walls. The number 95 stands for non-oil and refers to the mask’s ability to filter particles not oil-based.

Where and when should it be worn?

If you’re in an enclosed environment like hospitals or crowded areas, consider wearing an N95 mask without valves. The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in India cautions against wearing N95 masks with breathing valves. Inhaling air from the valves can lead to infection. These respirators are suitable for use in public places such as parks and malls where exhaled particles can quickly disperse.

What’s the difference between a surgical, cloth, or KN95-based mask?

• Cloth masks offer very limited protection from the coronavirus.
• These surgical masks are similar to those doctors use. They protect against liquid splashes and large-particle droplets. Because of their material and design, they are not effective against small particles such as the coronavirus. You can transmit the virus by coughing, breathing, or sneezing. They don’t block your ability to exhale. Your skin can be exposed even if you don’t have a surgical face mask.
• The KN95 mask in India is sometimes misunderstoodly called N95. The difference lies in country certification. The US-based National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has approved N95. KN95 is a Chinese certificate. FFP2 is the European certification. All of them offer similar protection against coronavirus.
• Experts recommend double-masking as none of these masks offer 100% protection. First, wear a snug-fitting N95 or similar mask. The top should be covered with a three-layered surgical mask, or an equivalent.

Can you fake an N95 mask with

Original N95 respirators will always bear a NIOSH approval mark. NIOSH, a federal agency located in the United States, is responsible for certifying N95 respirators. NIOSH has certified the N95 mask as the only one in existence. FFP2 is an acronym for F-File 2 in Europe. Other models that have similar efficiency are available in other countries. If:

• The approval number for the filtering or headband is not available.
• NIOSH markings do not exist.
• NIOSH is incorrectly spelled.
• You can make the mask from decorative fabric or any other element.
• It bears the claim that it has been approved by NIOSH for children.
• Filtering facepieces come with ear loops and not headbands..

How do you wear it?

Before you don your mask, make sure you have read the instructions.. Attach the N95 respirator to your head by attaching it to the straps Adjust the seal to make sure the mask fits snugly over your nose. The mask should completely cover your nose and mouth.

What precautions should you take before wearing N95/KN95

• An N95 respirator can make it difficult to breathe. Patients with heart and lung disease should be careful about using an N95 respirator.
• Do not wear a worn-out or dirty respirator.
• To get the best fit, avoid wearing the mask with facial hair.
• N95 respirators should not be used by children who aren’t being closely monitored.