N95 Respirator VS Surgical Masks for Germ Protection During COVID19

Scientists are testing every day to find the best gears for germ protection during coronavirus outbreak. Our topic today is “Masks”, as the novel coronavirus spreads throughout the US, people have clamoured for now sold-out or up-charged masks of all types in an effort to protect themselves.

Understanding of Surgical Masks and N95 Respirators

SurgicalMaskN95 Respirator

Testing and Approval	Cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)	Evaluated, tested, and approved by NIOSH
Intended Use and Purpose	Fluid resistant and provides the wearer protection against large droplets, splashes, or sprays of bodily or other hazardous fluids. Protects the patient from the wearer’s respiratory emissions.	Reduces wearer’s exposure to particles including small particle aerosols and large droplets (only non-oil aerosols).
Face Seal Fit	Loose-fitting	Tight-fitting
Fit Testing Requirement	No	Yes
User Seal Check Requirement	No	Yes. Required each time the respirator is donned (put on)
Filtration	Does NOT provide the wearer with a reliable level of protection from inhaling smaller airborne particles and is not considered respiratory protection	Filters out at least 95% of airborne particles including large and small particles
Leakage	Leakage occurs around the edge of the mask when user inhales	When properly fitted and donned, minimal leakage occurs around edges of the respirator when user inhales
Use Limitations	Disposable. Discard after each patient encounter.	Ideally should be discarded after each patient encounter and after aerosolgenerating procedures. It should also be discarded when it becomes damaged or deformed; no longer forms an effective seal to the face; becomes wet or visibly dirty; breathing becomes difficult; or if it becomes contaminated with blood, respiratory or nasal secretions, or other bodily fluids from patients.

If you live in an outbreak zone, you must wear a mask. Here the list of highly-rated N95 Respirator and Surgical Masks for everyone during this coronavirus outbreak.

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