Leading health experts argue that using two masks on top of each other could further help stop the spread of the dreaded COVID-19.
COVID-19 cases continue to skyrocket in numerous places around the world. With the surge of new variants, people have begun double masking in hopes of lessening the risks of contracting the virus. Leading health experts agree.
What is Double Masking?
Numerous people have been seen wearing masks on top of each other. Two surgical masks or a combination of surgical and cloth masks have been spotted as COVID-19 cases surge, and new variants bring more uncertainty.
It may seem overly cautious for most, but health experts disagree.
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The Benefits of Double Masking During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Since the COVID-19 virus is airborne, aerosolized droplets covering with a mask have been the norm for over a year. Health experts agree that wearing two masks helps filter out more of the droplets, decreasing transmission risks.
One way to solve the problem is by wearing an N95 mask that experts say can filter out 95% of tiny particles. Hence, experts agree that using two masks create an additional layer of protection.
Dr. Stacy De-Lin, a family medicine specialist from New York City, says in the Strategist that wearing cloth masks on top of medical-grade masks works best on blocking droplets. She adds that double masking also ensures a snug fit that helps boost protection.
In a commentary published in the journal Med, Monica Gandhi, a professor of medicine at the University of California, says that in theory, the virus should face more difficulty when penetrating two layers of masks compared to one layer of medical-grade mask.
When asked on TODAY about double masking, Dr. Anthony Fauci of the U.S National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases backs up the idea saying it makes common sense that double masking would be more effective.
When it comes to face coverings, ensuring the right fit, that it sits snug, covering both your nose and mouth are critical. However, a study published in BMJ Open in 2020 found that N95 masks effectively filtered out ultrafine particles expelled at human cough speeds. But, vacuum bags were found to be more effective. Simultaneously, t-shirt fabric masks were found to be the least effective material that blocked significantly fewer particles.
The study analyzed 20 commonly used fabrics and materials for masks and evaluator their ability to reduce air concentrations of fine particles. Results showed that single fabric layers are able to block some ultrafine particles, while additional layers increased effectivity.
The filtration efficiency of a single layer of fabric and a combination of materials was found to be between 35% to 45%, respectively.
Non-woven materials combined with fabric masks increased protection by up to 11%.
Regardless of the masks you use, whether it's a surgical mask, fabric mask, or an N95 mask, double masking has proven to be a superior way of ensuring maximum safety during these dangerous times.
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