#n95 mask

[i-amusemyself]

Doctors really do sincerely despise him.

[pandemic-info]

Masks and respirators for prevention of respiratory infections: a state of the science review | Clinical Microbiology Reviews

Our synthesis of evidence from over 100 published reviews and selected primary studies, including re-analyzing contested meta-analyses of key clinical trials, produced seven key findings.

First, there is strong and consistent evidence for airborne transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and other respiratory pathogens.

Second, masks are, if correctly and consistently worn, effective in reducing transmission of respiratory diseases and show a dose-response effect.

Third, respirators are significantly more effective than medical or cloth masks.

Fourth, mask mandates are, overall, effective in reducing community transmission of respiratory pathogens.

Fifth, masks are important sociocultural symbols; non-adherence to masking is sometimes linked to political and ideological beliefs and to widely circulated mis- or disinformation.

Sixth, while there is much evidence that masks are not generally harmful to the general population, masking may be relatively contraindicated in individuals with certain medical conditions, who may require exemption. Furthermore, certain groups (notably D/deaf people) are disadvantaged when others are masked.

Finally, there are risks to the environment from single-use masks and respirators.

[chronicmenippean]

https://actionnetwork.org/letters/freen95s?source=direct_link&

[willowreader]

This is exactly how I feel about masking.

[teratotally]

Excuse the terrible art but I saw this awesome makeup on Pinterest and I thought about how you could do something similar with an N95.

You could make the beads on your face continue into beads on your mask. You could even match your makeup to the color of your mask.

Idk please tell me you see the vision

[n95mask]

Nirvana Being offers high-quality N95 masks with superior filtration and comfort, ensuring maximum protection against airborne pollutants, viruses, and bacteria.

[antipollutionmask]

Can Air Pollution Masks Protect People from Delhi’s Hazardous Air Quality?

Delhi’s air quality has reached alarming levels, forcing residents to seek ways to protect themselves from hazardous pollution. With an Air Quality Index (AQI) often exceeding safe limits, many are turning to anti pollution masks as a protective measure. But do these pollution masks truly provide sufficient protection against toxic air? Let's explore their effectiveness and limitations.

The Role of Air Pollution Masks in Shielding Against Pollutants

Air pollution is a dangerous mix of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), toxic gases, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While no air pollution mask can entirely eliminate exposure to pollutants, they can help reduce inhalation of harmful particles, particularly fine PM2.5 particles, which are known to penetrate deep into the lungs and cause severe health issues.

According to experts, wearing an anti pollution mask can significantly limit exposure to airborne pollutants. However, not all masks offer the same level of protection.

Choosing the Right Pollution Mask

Not all masks are designed to combat air pollution effectively. Here’s how different types of masks compare:

Surgical and Cloth Masks - These are commonly used but offer minimal protection against fine air pollutants. They may block large dust particles but fail to filter out PM2.5 and harmful gases.

N95 Masks - Considered one of the best options, N95 masks have a high filtration efficiency, reducing exposure to PM2.5 by up to 95%. A study has shown that N95 masks can cut down exposure to ultra-fine particles by 60% and particulate matter by a factor of 14.

N99 and N100 Masks - Offering even higher filtration efficiency, these masks can block up to 99% of PM2.5 particles, making them an excellent choice for people living in areas with extremely high pollution levels.

Activated Carbon Masks - These masks contain activated carbon filters that help absorb certain toxic gases in addition to filtering fine particles. However, their effectiveness in blocking gaseous pollutants is still limited.

The Effectiveness of Pollution Masks in Delhi’s Air Crisis

Despite their advantages, pollution masks are not foolproof. While they help reduce exposure to PM2.5 particles, they do not fully prevent inhalation of harmful gases such as nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide, which are major components of Delhi’s smog.

Moreover, the effectiveness of an air pollution mask largely depends on how well it fits. If a mask is loose or does not properly seal around the nose and mouth, its filtration efficiency drops significantly. Users must ensure a snug fit and replace their masks regularly to maintain effectiveness.

Additional Measures to Combat Air Pollution

While using anti pollution masks is a step in the right direction, they should be combined with other protective measures:

Limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution hours

Using air purifiers indoors to reduce indoor air pollution

Wearing properly fitted masks with high filtration efficiency

Keeping windows closed to prevent outdoor pollutants from entering indoor spaces

Conclusion

The rising pollution levels in Delhi necessitate urgent action, and wearing a pollution mask is one of the few immediate solutions to minimize health risks. While N95 and N99 masks provide significant protection against fine particulate matter, they do not completely eliminate exposure to harmful gases. To effectively combat air pollution, individuals must use masks in combination with other preventive measures. As Delhi’s air quality crisis continues, awareness and the right protective gear will be crucial in safeguarding public health.

[willowreader]

This zine is a great resource to hand out to young people..

[affixjoy]

My darlings, my loves, my fellow weirdos, I am begging you all to REST after you have covid.

I know it is very hard, and our society asks you to get back up and running at full speed as soon as possible, before you’re even done testing positive even.

But please my friends, please rest.

If you push too hard too fast you might be sicker for longer, you might be doing long lasting damage to yourself.

So please my beautiful nerds, take care of yourselves and REST.

[feminist-space]

World Health Organization

MEDIA ADVISORY

NEW: COVID19 variant of interest JN.1

Geneva, 19 December 2023 -- Due to its rapidly increasing spread, WHO is classifying the variant JN.1 as a separate variant of interest (VOl) from the parent lineage BA.2.86. It was previously classified as VOl as part of BA.2.86 sublineages.

WHO advises people to take measures to prevent infections and severe disease using all available tools. These include:

-Wear a mask when in crowded, enclosed, or poorly ventilated areas, and keep a safe distance from others, as feasible

-Improve ventilation

-Practise respiratory etiquette - covering coughs and sneezes

-Clean your hands regularly

-Stay up to date with vaccinations against COVID-19 and influenza, especially if you are at high risk for severe disease

-Stay home if you are sick

-Get tested if you have symptoms, or if you might have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or influenza

For health workers and health facilities, WHO advises:

-Universal masking in health facilities, as well as appropriate masking, respirators and other PPE for health workers caring for suspected and confirmed COVID-19 patients.

-Improve ventilation in health facilities

Image also has alt text embedded.

[saeboria]

if anyone is interested my shop is https://www.etsy.com/shop/matulasmercantile and all mask chain proceeds goes to not only a disabled person but also goes towards buying masks for my local mask bloc 😷💕

[necnill]

Reposted by Mark Frost

[n95mask]

Why N95 Masks Are Essential and How to Use Them Correctly

In today's world, air pollution, respiratory illnesses, and viral outbreaks have made protective gear more critical than ever. Among the various face coverings available, the N95 mask stands out as the most effective in filtering harmful airborne particles. But why are these masks essential, and how can one use them correctly to maximize their protection?

What Is an N95 Mask?

An N95 mask is a type of respirator designed to filter at least 95% of airborne particles, including bacteria, viruses, and pollutants. Unlike surgical or cloth masks, which provide minimal protection against fine particles, N95 masks create a tight seal around the nose and mouth, significantly reducing exposure to harmful substances.

The name "N95" signifies the mask's efficiency level, meaning it can block particles as small as 0.3 microns. This high filtration efficiency makes N95 masks a top choice for healthcare professionals, industrial workers, and individuals living in highly polluted areas.

Why Are N95 Masks Essential?

Superior Filtration Efficiency:

Capable of filtering out hazardous particles, including dust, smoke, and airborne viruses.

Protection in High-Risk Environments:

Used extensively by healthcare workers to shield against infections.

Essential for people in polluted cities like Delhi, where air quality often reaches hazardous levels.

Recommended by Health Authorities:

Organizations like the WHO and CDC emphasize the importance of N95 masks for protection against airborne diseases.

How to Use an N95 Mask Correctly

To ensure maximum protection, an N95 mask must be worn and handled correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Wash Your Hands

Before handling the mask, wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer to prevent contamination.

Step 2: Check the Mask

Inspect for any damage, such as tears or loose straps. Do not use a compromised mask.

Step 3: Position the Mask Properly

Hold the mask with the nosepiece at the top.

Place it over your nose and mouth.

Secure the straps behind your head or ears, ensuring a snug fit.

Step 4: Perform a Fit Test

Cover the mask with both hands and inhale deeply.

If air leaks around the edges, adjust the straps and nosepiece.

Step 5: Avoid Touching the Mask

Once fitted, avoid touching the front of the mask to prevent contamination. If adjustment is needed, clean hands before and after.

Step 6: Safe Removal and Disposal

Wash hands before removing the mask.

Use the straps to lift the mask away from your face without touching the front.

Dispose of it properly or store it safely if it’s reusable.

Wash hands after removal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ill-fitting mask: A loose mask reduces effectiveness.

Reusing disposable masks excessively: Overuse diminishes filtration capacity.

Touching the front of the mask: This increases contamination risk.

Not covering both nose and mouth: Leaving the nose exposed reduces protection.

Not washing hands before and after use: Proper hygiene prevents infections.

Final Thoughts

The N95 mask remains one of the most effective tools for protecting against airborne pollutants and infectious diseases. However, their effectiveness depends on correct usage, proper fitting, and regular replacement. Whether you are a healthcare professional, someone with respiratory conditions, or living in a polluted environment, using an N95 mask properly can significantly reduce health risks. Stay informed, stay protected, and use your N95 mask wisely.

[jenroses]

Hey! Please feel free to ignore but you did say to ask you about masks :P the ones I've found that are multiple layers for max protection are really stiff, which squishes my face and leads to gaps. Do you have recommendations? Thanks!

I know that there's a lot of noise about elastomeric masks but for me they're a nonstarter because of the stiffness you talk about. I think it's important to understand that most of the 94-95 standard masks that actually meet that standard are going to be plenty good enough where most people are concerned. Is it possible to catch Covid with a mask on? Yes. I've done it.

Is it likely? No. I'm immune compromised. This isn't data, but our experience has been that a combination of masks, reasonable common sense and good filtration are enough that despite having a school-aged child, a husband who travels for conventions, and me, immune suppressed, with a college student living in our house, I have only had covid twice, the first time was an unfortunate collision of me going to a store at the wrong time where a clerk had both covid and the flu and gave them to me, and the other one involved a family member not using a mask at a public event while eating. Even then, when I caught covid and the flu at the same time and isolated immediately with filtration and everyone coming into my space being masked... not one other person in our house caught it, and when someone else caught it a year later, the only people who caught it were sharing sleeping spaces. Our roommates did not catch it, and everyone was masking from the moment of the first positive test. When my kid got half-assed about masking at school, he immediately got flu and strep at the same time. I pointed out that his lack of care about it could mean a lot of missed school for him and serious health impacts for both of us, and he started wearing a mask again, and did not get sick for the rest of the school year. He HATES the masks that go behind the head and wears Armbrust kn95 masks exclusively (dark blue, lol) And it's pretty clear that without the masks he was getting sick a lot and with he just...doesn't. He is wearing them all day except for lunch through full school days, so that says something. Armbrust will send little behind the head doohickies to keep them off the ears but he never uses them. At $2ish per mask they're not the cheapest but he uses one mask for multiple days so it's not too bad overall cost wise. They have kid sizing, but he's in the regular adult size now at 11. Now, I'll talk about Armbrust for a minute because I really like the company. On pretty much every mask they sell you'll see a video of one of their people reviewing the mask and going over testing data... but they ALSO have reviews of almost every other mask on the market, bad, good and in between, and if you find a mask on Amazon or something and want to know more about it, search the mask name and "armbrust" and the youtube video and product data page will pop up. I've found several special masks for very particular needs by looking through their database for combinations of breathability and shape that weren't even masks they sold. So if you are struggling, take a look at the database, eliminate "failed" masks, look for the ones that meet your needs and then watch the video to see what he says about them first. There are some VERY inexpensive masks out there that work very well, and some masks that are incredibly breathable or incredibly high filtration and a few unicorns that are both.

Now Hubby is okay with the same KN95 masks that our son likes but he exercises and his lungs get a little touchy sometimes so he needs maximum ease in breathing, so using that database I found Dr. Puri masks. Here's the Armbrust review. Here's the listing I found them on. Hubby LOVES them. He also prefers behind the ear. About $1.50 each.

I *hate* behind the ear with a hot hate, they bug me. But I can't just use one type of mask all the time because I have EDS and neck issues so pressure there can be awkward, plus I get short of breath sometimes anyway (history of pulmonary embolism that long predates covid) and I have sensory skin issues.

Bar none the most breathable mask I've ever tried, which also does not fog my glasses, is the Drager mask. These are soft, extraordinarily easy to breathe through, and have a unique strap that makes on/off very easy, and lets you pull the top strap and let it hang around your neck if needed. Unfortunately it has a VERY snug fit across the nose and leaves marks on my cheeks, or it would be perfect, but it's a good option, and possibly someone with a smaller face would have an easier time. These are possibly the best filtering and most breathable masks on the market, so for high risk situations this is the mask I would use. They filter 99.7% in testing. They're a little more expensive at about $1.25 per when I checked today. For a good intersection of fit and comfort, but a little less breathable, are the ACI N95 surgical respirator duckbills. These do not leave marks, don't fog much, good seal around the face, and the single most comfortable head strap I've ever seen. The fabric is very smooth, it is sensory good, but the breathability is not as high. It's not hard to breathe through, it's just not as easy as Drager or Dr. Puri. But... They could probably pass an N99 standard by Armbrust's testing, as they filter >99.4% of particulate, where the standard is 95%. These are also incredibly cheap. If you get their subscribe and save discount (you can do every 6 months) you can get 50 for $25, so 50 cents apiece.

All of these masks are pretty soft, easy to wear, and very good at what they do.

The TL:DR though.... The important thing is to find a mask that you will wear consistently and correctly every time you need it. A mask that hangs on your face and slips is not a good mask for you. A mask you hate so much you make excuses not to wear it is not a good mask for you. A mask that breaks easily or makes it hard to breathe so you end up taking it off is not a good mask. If what you have isn't working, there are LOTS of things that might.

Last Armbrust plug: THEY HAVE A SAMPLER PACK. You can buy a pack of a zillion different types and styles of mask and try a bunch! And order the one you like best! If you aren't sick, one sampler pack can be tried by the people in your household so everyone can figure out what works for them!

Also, I used to get sick very very often and now I just...don't. Not from contagious viruses, anyway. I don't understand why people are so cavalier about it. I've been sick less since 2020 than in any given six month period in my entire life. Despite being on immune suppressants.

[willowreader]

The very first time I forgot to wear one while visiting with someone indoors I got Covid. A good well fitting N95 works well. I wear one in indoor public places and at home when visitors come. I have only been sick once since the summer of 2020. It happened in 2024 when I answered the door with no mask and got Covid from an asymptomatic person who had been on a plane unmasked. H5N1 is spread just like Covid. It has been found in wastewater in many places especially in the US. We need to protect ourselves. Respirators like N95's good ventilation, and vaccines all work. The science has proven it again and again.