CDC says that N95 masks with valves can protect you and others from COVID-19. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) TNS
Delta variants have become the main strain of COVID and now account for more than 93% of all cases in the United States, most of which are unvaccinated people.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention changed its mask guidelines last month. The agency now recommends that people in areas with "high" or "high" COVID-19 transmission should wear masks indoors again. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly two-thirds of the counties in the United States have high or high levels of transmission, including all 21 counties in New Jersey.
But, are N95 masks with valves safe for COVID-19 protection?
Yes, the CDC says that the N95 mask with valve can protect you and others from COVID-19.
"NIOSH approved N95 filter facepiece respirators with exhalation valves provide the wearer with the same protection as respirators without valves," said the CDC. "As a source control, NIOSH's research results show that even without a covered valve, an N95 respirator with an exhalation valve can provide the same or better source control as surgical masks, surgical masks, cloth masks or fabric coverings."
According to the FDA, the N95 mask "is a respiratory protection device designed to achieve a very tight facial fit and very effective filtration of airborne particles." It is also recommended to conduct a suitability test to ensure a safe fit.
N95 masks were difficult to find at one time because they were in high demand at the beginning of the pandemic, leading customers to buy KN95 masks. But now there are many N95 masks available.
The CDC stated that KN95 masks are a cheaper alternative to N95 masks, as long as they “meet requirements similar to those set by the CDC National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for respirators”.
Several reputable merchants specialize in the sale of NIOSH certified N95 and KN95 masks, and the delivery speed is quite fast, especially companies such as N95 Medical Supplies, N95MaskCo and Well Before.
If you decide to upgrade, the following is a summary of the CDC-certified N95 and KN95 masks and disposable mask options you can purchase.
Where can I buy N95 masks with valves online:
Where can I buy N95 masks in bulk online:
Where can I buy a single N95 mask online:
Where can I buy KN95 masks in bulk online
Disposable masks you can buy in bulk online:
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