The 6 Best KN95 Masks to Protect Against Omicron Covid-19

2022-04-22 22:12:17 By : Mr. kalo chen

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CDC guidelines state that these—along with N95s—should be your mask of choice.

As the COVID-19 pandemic rages on and new variants continue to emerge, CDC officials periodically update their recommendations to slow down the spread. Last week, the CDC issued an update to its guidance on masks, stating that people "may choose" to wear N95 and KN95 masks in order to ensure the best protection against COVID-19.

“Loosely woven cloth products provide the least protection, layered finely woven products offer more protection, well-fitting disposable surgical masks and KN95s offer even more protection, and well-fitting NIOSH-approved respirators (including N95s) offer the highest level of protection.” the agency stated on its website.

Read More: Best N95 Masks for Covid-19

What’s the difference between N95 and KN95 masks? The masks offer similar levels of protection and both filter out at least 95 percent of air particles. N95 masks are regulated as class II medical devices by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and must be certified by the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). KN95s do not have to meet the same strict U.S. requirements as N95s, but they do meet international standards for safety and are more widely available than N95s.

KN95 masks have a tighter fit than disposable surgical masks and filter out at least 95 percent of air particles, NBC Chicago reports. "It's got a higher protection level" than cloth masks, Dr. Allison Arwady, the commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health, told the outlet.

Read More: Why Cloth Masks Just Won’t Cut It Against the Omicron Variant

Before you go out and stock up on KN95s, make sure they’re legit. The CDC confirmed that there’s a rise in counterfeit masks, and warns people to do their research before checking out. The easiest way to confirm that the KN95s you’re buying will offer you the correct level of protection is to make sure the manufacturer is listed on the FDA's Emergency Use Authorization.

To make sure you’re not getting scammed, we’ve rounded up a list of the best KN95 masks for COVID protection.

There’s no scientific evidence to prove that wearing a colorful mask makes it more effective at preventing you from coming down with Covid-19, but it certainly can’t hurt. We love the navy option here.

No matter what type of mask you're wearing, one common downside is the fact that the elastic earloops eventually stretch out (or create an added pain behind your ears to start). Luckily, you can get yourself a set of KN95 masks with adjustable earloops to customize the fit and get more wear out of each one.

Vida's masks, which are made in an FDA-registered facility, feature KN95 protection but also an environmentally friendly factor. With every order, the brand will send a prepaid shipping label to return used masks for recycling. Good for you, and the environment—'nuff said. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors to suit your everyday style.

These masks from 3M (a NIOSH-approved manufacturer for N95 masks). They offer at least 95 percent of airborne particles and have design features like a moldable nose clip for a custom contour to your face.

Maybe you prefer the fit of a 3D style mask—in which case, this WellBefore option (with adjustable earloops for comfort and the right fit) is for you.

For those of you who want to buy your KN95 masks in builk, consider this 50-pack from BYDCare. One box is sure to keep you equipped and protected for a solid while.