Types of Masks
N95 Respirator
for health care providers working directly with sick people
This specialized mask should be reserved for people in direct contact with people confirmed to have COVID-19 and are in the hospital. N95 respirators are fit to have a tight seal, and should be reserved for health professionals
Surgical Mask
for people working in a health care or emergency responder setting
Though not a tight-fitting as an N95 respirator, surgical masks can help filter particles out of the air. Meant to be one-use only, these masks should be reserved for health care professionals who are more exposed to the COVID-19 virus at work
The CDC now recommends wearing a face covering when outside the home. Cloth face coverings are not substitutes for surgical masks, which are in short supply, but may help prevent community spread.
Some Tips
- Wash with soap and water after use
- Wash hands before and after putting mask on and off
- Use more than one layer of fabric
For more information, visit the CDC website.
