Does wearing two masks offer more protection?

Does wearing two masks offer more protection?

It depends, but it is possible that doubling helps in some situations.

The United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the use of a fabric mask made of two or more layers, ensuring that it covers the nose and mouth. The agency says it should fit perfectly so that there are no gaps on the sides of your face.

Wearing just one mask should be sufficient for most situations, as long as it fits well and does not come loose, said Dr. David Hamer, an infectious disease specialist at Boston University.

“Starting with a good mask will be critical,” said Hamer.

Still, some people may want extra protection if they are at risk of serious illness if infected or in situations where they expect to be around other people for long periods, such as on an airplane.

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One option in situations where you want extra protection is to wear a cloth mask, as well as a normal surgical mask, said Dr. Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist at the University of California, San Francisco.

Gandhi said the combination – with one of the masks on top – can help achieve an effect similar to that of the N95 mask. She recommended additional protection for people who will be indoors in areas where transmission rates are high – which could reflect the circulation of more contagious variants.

Another option that Gandhi and a colleague recommend for situations where you want “maximum” protection: A two-layer fabric mask with a filter material in the middle.

With simple fabric masks for daily use, Gandhi noted that it is important that they are made of a well-woven material and have at least two layers, which creates “an obstacle course” that makes it easier for virus-carrying particles to pass through .

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The AP is answering your questions about the coronavirus in this series. Send them to: [email protected].

Read the previous viral questions:

Can I use face protection instead of a mask?

Does wearing a mask pose any health risks?

Should I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I have the virus?