Science has repeatedly proven that face masks can prevent the spread of coronavirus and therefore save lives.
There are different types of face masks available, but most of them are reserved for health professionals working in close contact with anyone who is sick and infected with the deadly virus. However, the World Health Organization and the CDC still recommend the general public without any underlying conditions to wear a fabric mask.
It is important to note that not all of them work at the same level of protection. Ideally, the face masks must be able to block large respiratory droplets from coughs or sneezes and smaller airborne particles known as aerosols, produced when a person is talking.
Scientists have been evaluating different types of masks by their levels of protection. Below are ranked from the best to worst face masks to wear:
READ: Japanese Researchers Developed Computer Model Proving Face Masks Save Lives by Up to 70%
1. N99 and N95 Masks
Scientists from the UK found that people wearing cotton masks have a 54% lower chance of infection compared to those who do not wear anything at all. Also, paper masks had a 39% lower chance of infection than those who do not wear any face masks.
Needless to say, paper masks are thinner and therefore provide less protection than a surgical mask with three layers of fabric.
READ MORE: 7 Tips to Avoid Fogging Your Eyeglasses While Wearing Face Masks
