Several studies have and continue to explore the efficacy of different kinds of masks, especially as the pandemic continues to evolve. Take this experiment researchers at Duke University conducted last year, testing different kinds of masks against each other to see which mask was the most effective in blocking respiratory droplets. Taking factors like correct fit and environmental variables into account, the N95 masks were the most effective in blocking droplets—99% to be exact. The next best mask? Surgical masks, followed by a double-layered, polypropylene-cotton mask (a.k.a., a cloth mask).And it's negligible, except for the N95s. The whole cloth mask zeitgeist was based on "my mask protects you, your mask protects me" and was in place until just a few weeks ago. Now that the "experts" have admitted that this was abject bullshit, cloth masks are (finally) deemed "ineffective" so we are making progress. Frankly, you don't need a medical degree to understand that any mask that protects others from you, also protects you from others. So wear one if you want, and stop hectoring others because they "refuse to protect you from their exhalations." Another factor is the virulence of Omicron - it is way less than previous variants, so it's time to let go of the masking requirement. Me going maskless may make you sick but it won't kill you, like we have tolerated as the price of socialization for 10,000 years. It's time we follow Great Britain's lead:
Boris Johnson confirms Plan B Covid measures will end on January 26 (msn.com)
Omicron Peaking wastewater - Bing News
All covid measures should end - and the sooner the better. It's time to start living normal lives again. You can keep wearing your N95 and face shield if you so choose, but leave the rest of us out of your paranoia.
N95 and KN95 masks are your best mask option—here’s where to buy them online
N95 and KN95 masks can provide increased protection against COVID-19 and other illnesses. Here's where to legitimate ones online from Amazon, Bona Fide Masks and more.
www.usatoday.com
In one study, the researchers sought to determine whether alternatives to high-efficiency N95 masks reserved for health care workers could offer similar protection for hospital personnel in the event of shortages. They tested the filtration ability of expired N95 masks, N95 masks that had been sterilized for reuse, and dozens of other face mask alternatives. The results show that both expired N95 masks and sterilized N95 masks provided the same level of protection as new N95 masks with greater than 95 percent filtration. Other alternatives provided less protection. For example, surgical masks with ties provided 71.5 percent filtration, while surgical masks with ear loops only provided 38.1 percent. Knowing the relative performance of alternatives to new N95 masks will help hospital administrators make evidence-based decisions to protect their staff.
EPA Researchers Test Effectiveness of Face Masks, Disinfection Methods Against COVID-19 | US EPA
EPA scientists are applying their expertise in aerosol and decontamination research to better understand mask effectiveness, as well as methods for disinfecting personal protective equipment for the public, healthcare workers, and other essential workers.
www.epa.gov