This KN95 and Surgical Masks Comparison should hopefully assist you in your decision of which mask to wear. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to search for options to protect themselves against the virus. Although it is a disease with a low mortality rate, infection probabilities are absolutely high. The virus is transmitted through direct, indirect (through contaminated objects or surfaces); or close contact with infected people via mouth and nose secretions. These include saliva, respiratory secretions, or secretion droplets. The mouth or the nose of an infected person releases these droplets when coughing, sneezing, speaking, or breathing. Yes, that’s correct speaking or breathing can spread Covid-19 particles that linger in the air even after the infected person has left the immediate area. This is according to the most recent CDC guidance released on September 20th 2020.
People who are in close contact (within 1 meter) with an infected person can catch COVID-19 when those infectious droplets get into their mouth, nose, or eyes. This represents a huge risk for the people who have to go out to buy groceries, work, or simply go back to their homes. That’s why many people have opted to use any type of face masks as a shield to protect themselves and others from contaminated droplets. Surgical masks have become a popular option among people, but how effective are these masks? What’s their efficacy when compared against KN95 respirators? Let’s take a look at both!
Surgical masks
Surgical masks are disposable protective devices with a loose-fit; which are capable of protecting eyes and nose from large-particle droplets, splashes, sprays, or splatter that may contain germs (viruses and bacteria); keeping it from reaching the mouth and nose. This is a common mask in medical settings, during surgical or medical procedures. These masks are better at capturing large particles, up to 3.0µm; and they are not intended to be used twice. Therefore, you need to discard your surgical mask after using it and put up another one. Surgical masks are not designed to protect you they are designed to protect the patient from a doctors bacteria during an operation. Furthermore, surgical masks do not offer complete protection from germs or viruses; as their loose-fit allows it to leak up to 30% of airborne particles. Nope, using duct tape around the edges to seal it around your face is not a reliable option, and would really hurt!
KN95 masks
KN95 is actually a type of filtering face respirator. This type of protective device is manufactured in China; and must comply with FDA guidelines before distribution in the United States. They are capable of filtering up to 95 percent of particles, even the small ones -up to 0,3µm of size-. This kind of respirator offers a close facial fit that protects the mouth and nose from leaks; protecting both the user and the people around them. In addition, KN95 respirators have 5 layers of synthetic material, which act as a barrier between the user and the environment. These layers do not compromise the breathing of the user and allow more than a single-use if correctly sterilized. Although it is highly recommended if you suspect exposure to Covid-19 to dispose of the respirator not to sanitize it.
Verdict: which one is better?
Undoubtedly, KN95 respirators offer a wider range of benefits than surgical masks. Both masks can block particles; but KN95 has a better filtration rate 95% Min., a closer fit, and the possibility of wearing it more than once with the correct measures. Do not miss the chance of having a KN95 respirator with FDA approval, and buy one on our website! We sincerely pray this KN95 and Surgical Masks Comparison has helped you stay safe during this trying time.
Hi I’m Julio Alfonzo a Venezuelan comedian and writer. Also a surfer, bodybuilder, 2-times Emmy nominee, and a liar.
You can view my bio here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julioalfonzo/