The N95 mask, a type of face shield, is designed to filter airborne particles. They can filter up 95% of particles and are easier than cloth masks. N95 masks can be ordered online on amazon.com/Certified-Particulate-Respirator-Protective-TC-84A-9315/dp/B08YS6WJZ3. They are a popular choice among health professionals and those in hazardous environments.
NIOSH-approved N95 masks filter up to 95% of particles
N95 masks filter up to 95% of the airborne particles. Look out for the NIOSH logo in block letters. Also look out for the approval number (84AXXXXX). NIOSH-approved respirators may be labelled N95, N99, or P95.
The government is currently distributing 400 million free N95 face masks to all U.S. citizens, making them readily available in community health centers and pharmacies. These masks are safe to wear under eyewear because they don’t contain any latex. The administration hopes to make the program fully operational by February 1. Walgreens and CVS were the first pharmacies to offer N95 face masks for free. Kroger, which is the Chicago-based Mariano’s supermarket chain, also offers free masks. A spokesperson for the company stated that the stores would be the distribution points for the N95-masks.
They’re easier to adjust than cloth masks
Many doctors and experts recommend that you use a N95 mask to cover your face instead of a cloth one. These masks have multiple layers of synthetic fiber which block up to 95% airborne particles. N95 masks can be adjusted much more easily than cloth masks.
They’re made in China
While it might not be fair to point fingers at China for the lack of N95 masks in the market, the fact remains that they are made here. 3M was unable to import the masks from China after the Chinese government imposed an embargo on exports of medical supplies in 2009. The embargo caused severe shortages that put the United States in a difficult position. But that does not mean that Chinese N95 masks are unaffordable. The dilemma is currently facing most American manufacturers.
They are also available online
Free N95 masks were rolled out by the Biden administration, and are now available at pharmacies, grocery chains, and community health centers. You can find a N95 mask locator on the CDC website. You can also browse through all the N95 masks that are available, including those approved by NIOSH and those not. The information provided by the CDC is helpful in making an informed decision about which mask is best for you.
The Strategic National Stockpile has more than 750 million N95 face masks for distribution to the public. The program is expected be fully operational in February. Kroger and Meijer will distribute the N95 Masks at their respective locations. If you don’t want them to be rolled out, they can be sent by mail.