Sapphire Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing of Central Queens With the Results of a New Face Mask Study
- By Ady Fox
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- 14 Aug, 2020
While the decrease in COVID-19 cases in New York has been attributed to universal masking rules, social distancing, and reopening in a measured fashion, the controversy still rages in much of the country about how effective face masks are in preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus.
Now, a new study conducted by Duke University found that most face masks do make a difference in preventing the spread of virus particles versus nothing at all.
Sapphire Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing of Central Queens has a look at how each type of face mask performed, including one that is actually worse than wearing no mask at all!
Best Performing Masks
It may not be a surprise that a fitted N95 mask provided the best protection from droplets, but these masks are not a viable solution for the general public. N95s should be reserved for medical personnel, and a proper fit is done by a specialist.
A three-layer surgical mask was the next best option, and these masks are starting to become available at drugstores and other locations. A homemade mask of a poly-cotton blend also performed very well, as did several other masks that are being made by retailers. Most of these prevented at least 80% of particles from getting through the mask.
Interestingly, while it performed well, an N95 mask with a valve in it did not perform as well as any of the options listed above. It does not decrease protection for the person wearing it, but it does for people around that person.
Less Effective Options
Knitted masks and bandanas, while better than not wearing a covering at all, did not perform as well. The knitted mask let through around 30% of droplets while a bandana allowed almost half of the particles to get through.
There is Something Worse Than Not Wearing a Mask
A fleece gaiter was found to actually be worse than not wearing a mask at all. Researchers believe this is due to particles spreading and sticking longer on the surface due to the material it’s made out of.
To learn more about Sapphire Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing of Central Queens and all of the services they offer, visit https://www.sapphirerehab.com/.
