Does Double Masking Increase Protection Against COVID-19?

Double masking has been proven to prevent COVID particles in the air from entering by adding more filtration and helping to reduce source control. Dr. Anthony Fauci stated it “just makes common sense” to double mask. He also stated that it is likely to provide more protection against COVID.

The logic behind double masking is that it will add more filtration and less particles will be able to pass through the mask; however, it should be noted that this can also cause a false sense of security — two low quality masks may not be as effective as one good quality mask, especially if worn incorrectly.

It is important to remember that gaps in the mask caused by poor fit make for infiltration of infectious particles. Shape and size are also important: two bulky surgical masks may be detrimental to your health because the stiff structure will encourage more gaps than with just one mask.

The CDC released a report outlining two methods to ensure that the fit of your mask is optimal. The first method is knotting the ear loops and tucking and flattening the extra material so that the mask is flush on the face. The second is utilizing a cloth mask over a medical procedure mask. The CDC has simulated 10 different mask scenarios and their effectiveness levels with the following mask options through a simulated cough: no mask, 3-ply mask, cloth mask, double mask, unknotted mask, and knotted and tucked mask.

An unknotted medical mask alone blocked 40.2% while a cloth mask alone blocked 44.3%. But when combined with the cloth mask over the medial mask, the percent of blocked particles rose up to 92.5% and 82.2% in two experiments. In another experiment, with knotting and tucking included, it reduced exposure 62.9%. A source unmasked cough with a double mask reduced 83% and a knotted and tucked mask reduced 64.5%. The best results were found when both the source and the receiver were double masked or wearing a knotted and tucked medical mask with its reduced exposure percentages being 96.4% with a double mask and 95.9% with a knotted and tucked mask.

It was also shown that it is best to double mask when using an N95 mask or any mask with an exhalation valve to protect others. It should also be noted that if you are going to double mask to make sure that good quality masks are being utilized and that they create a tight seal so unfiltered air cannot leave or come in; you should also be aware that that it could make breathing a bit more difficult, so a good filtered mask can help remedy that.

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Reference:https://thewell.northwell.edu/covid/vaccine-myths-debunked