Research proves that wearing a mask is one of the best defenses against contracting or spreading the COVID-19 virus. And since the Omicron variant is highly transmissible, it’s more important than ever to mask up in indoor public spaces or crowded outdoor spaces, even if you’re vaccinated and boosted. But the type of mask you wear, how you wear it, and how you take care of it are all important factors too.
Cloth masks just don’t cut it against Omicron. The CDC recommends respirator-type masks such as N95 (made to US standards) or KN95 (made to Chinese standards), or KF94 (made to South Korean standards). N95 masks typically have elastic bands that go around the head while KN95 bands go around the ears. KF94 masks are shaped differently, more like a dome tent than a bird’s beak.
This month, the Federal government is distributing free N95 masks by shipping them to pharmacies and community centers around the country. Every adult is allowed to pick up four masks for free. They should be available beginning in February.
Campus Safety will have a supply of KN95 masks for employees by the end of this month. You can also double up your surgical or fabric masks, or wear one of each at the same time. Campus Safety, Beauchamp, Library and Residence Halls have a currently have a generous supply of surgical masks for those who need them. Ask your supervisor or hall director.
A great mask won’t do you any good if unfiltered air leaks in around the edges. Be sure to get a mask sized appropriately for your face. Many manufacturers offer a size guide. It should fit snugly against your face and cover your mouth, nose, and chin, with a nose wire so you can pinch it securely around the bridge of your nose.
If you have a beard, wear a mask fitter, or wear a surgical mask over your regular mask, pulling it tight enough to press the mask as close to your face as possible.
The marketplace is flooded with manufacturers selling N95 masks, but pay close attention to details and reviews, as some are not actually made according to the necessary stringent standards. A real N95 mask should have the words NIOSH approved, the name of the manufacturer, and testing and certification number.
You can review a list of approved manufacturers here, and look out for fakes here.
Labels like “meets ASTM F3502,” “Meets Workplace Performance,” and “Meets Workplace Performance Plus,” indicate new NIOSH standards that also have strict criteria.
Let’s face it, respirator-type masks are expensive. You don’t want to throw them out after each use. Luckily you don’t have to. You can reuse your filtration-type masks as many times as you like as long as it continues to fit well and isn’t damaged.
Keep in mind, the more you take the mask on and off, the more stretched out the straps become and the looser the fit. The CDC recommends reusing masks up to five times for healthcare professionals, but you can use your best judgment. As long as it fits snugly and isn’t damaged it’s safe to reuse. Store masks in a breathable container, like a paper bag.
To maximize the efficacy of your masks, be sure to rotate them from day to day so virus particles have a chance to die off before you use it again. The virus dies after three days, so rotating your masks every five days or so should be safe bet. Try numbering your masks (write your name inside too, so you don’t get yours mixed up with other family members’) and placing them in corresponding numbered paper bag with the days of the week to help you keep track.
Try not to touch the front of the mask when taking it on and off, and wash your hands after handling it.
University of Portland
5000 N. Willamette Blvd.,
Portland, Oregon 97203-5798
503.943.8000
This website uses cookies to track information for analytics purposes. You can view the full University of Portland privacy policy for more information.
