When it comes to protecting yourself from the coronavirus, wearing a mask is key. But not just any mask will do especially when we’re learning to “live” with the virus.
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Although over 90 percent of the population in Singapore is vaccinated against COVID-19 and many have already received their booster shots, the pandemic isn’t over — and neither is mask-wearing. Nobody wants to fall sick because we don’t know what kind of long-term effects the virus will have on our bodies. No one has all the answers yet, but the best way forward is to take responsibility for our health.
As new variants of the coronavirus continue to emerge, it is more important than ever for everyone to wear masks. However, not all masks are created equal.
Does double masking offer better protection against the virus?
In a study conducted by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it was found that wearing two masks instead of one provided better protection against the coronavirus. The researchers believe that this is because the second mask helps to create a tighter seal around the face and prevents droplets from escaping from the mouth or nose. In other words, wearing two masks creates a barrier that is less likely to let the virus through.
Moreover, there is growing evidence that the new variants may spread via aerosolized particles. As a result, we should really be concentrating on wearing high-quality masks.
How to double mask correctly?
With so many new variants of the coronavirus emerging, double masking can slow down the spread. Masks come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to find one that fits you properly. One of the most important factors for successful protection reported is the fit of the mask itself. So if you find that your 3-ply mask is loose fitting, you can consider wearing a cloth mask over it.
Make Sure You’re Wearing Your Mask Correctly
- Make sure the mask is well-ventilated so that you can breathe easily
- If you are wearing a disposable mask, discard it after use and replace it with a new one
But before you rush to put on two masks, there are now a plethora of high-filtration respirator-style masks on the market, including N95s, Chinese-made KN95s, and South Korean–made KF94s.
And if you haven’t yet been vaccinated, make sure to get your booster shot as soon as possible. The health of our community depends on it.
