How to Spot a “Fake” Mask

We all know that masks are one of the key components in stopping the spread of COVID-19, but what masks are the best? On Friday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its mask guidance for consumers after months of public health experts urging Americans to start wearing higher quality masks. The CDC didn’t exactly recommend one type of mask over another, however, they did emphasizes that N95s and similar high-filtration respirators offer the best protection against COVID-19.

In addition to this recommendation, it’s also been reported that many masks sold online are “fakes” and do not provide the same protection as a normal N95. How do we spot the difference between “real” and “fake?” N95s are made to U.S. government standards put out by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and are rigorously tested. If you chose to go with either a KF94 or a KN95, these masks are regulated by the Chinese government (KN95) and South Korean (KF94) governments. While the KF94 is safe and protective, make sure the front of your KN95 is stamped with both the company name and the respirator standard number.

Source: NPR