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For those still wearing masks, please consider the following.
I came across a Washington Post article in early October about finding the best (safest) face masks and followed up, checking various resources in the article.
One stood out particularly -- his name is Aaron Collins and he is a mechanical engineer who began testing various masks available to the public in 2020. He videoed his test sessions and then posted them on YouTube (mask nerd youtube). He also produced a spreadsheet which contains all his testing data on the face masks he has tested and where to buy them.
While some of you may prefer to wear N95s, especially for those of you who experience SOB, you might want to take a look at Aaron's videos (I'd start with his "top picks") and the spreadsheet. Those with the lowest number in the column "time to max breath" column would be the most breathable. However, there are lots of other things to consider -- the better the fit, the better the mask will protect one so the dimensions of the mask matters.
Aaron generally prefers the KF94s which are made in South Korea. The South Korean Ministry of Health sets certification and testing standards and South Korean manufacturers who can't meet those standards are not allowed to use the KF94 designation on their products. I personally wear a BOTN medium KF94 but keep in mind that I am 5'3", weigh under 115# and have a small face.
Also, if you are using fabric masks, watch his videos which discuss those.
Replies
Thank you for sharing this important information. I did look him up and was starting to watch the video …; however, it was 35 minutes and decided to watch it tomorrow. Thank you again for protecting all of us
I just learned that CBSN did an interview with Aaron and apparently aired it yesterday. I went to the CBS news website and it's there (look for "some experts advise face mask upgrade"). It's only 7 minutes long and just an overview but he does explain why people still using fabric or surgical masks should reconsider and move to more protective masks. Since it looks like we'll be wearing masks for a while, why not wear something which will protect you the best?!
Rose,
I agree with you wholeheartedly. Wearing cloth masks or cheap masks without the filters does not serve the purpose of protection. Education on this topic needs to be continued throughout all media sources. I realize that some are just burnt out of the corona scene; however, we must continue to protect ourselves until the virus gets under control
I, for one, will continue to wear good KF94 masks even if our governor in Hawaii ever lifts the indoor mask mandate. With my bronchiectasis, I believe a breakthrough infection from any variant that happens to come through will not turn out to be a mild case for me. Same for the flu or even a common cold -- for me, anything which affects my lungs will be a big risk and wearing a good mask is just like wearing my eyeglasses, carrying my mobile phone or wearing my smartwatch -- part of my everyday equipment.
Rose,
I agree that masks will be a part of our lung protection toolbox going forward in some situations. Many of us get sick more easily than the average person and remain sicker longer. I hope that we do get to a point where we can have more personal freedoms- to be out without masks other than MD offices, airplanes, public transportation, etc.
I saw a post from someone on another site inquiring if he/she was unusual in wanting to wear a mask "forever". The responses of people who shared about wanting to keep wearing masks ranged from those with social anxiety, allergies, those who are enjoying not getting sick every few months, etc., etc. And since many people seem to have "forgotten" about social distancing in public places, I have my mask to protect myself.
Rose,
Yes, many have forgotten about social distancing and they look at us as if we were going overnight. However, we must stay strong and continue to follow respiratory precautions until the corona challenges settle down
Thank you for providing this information, RoseHI. I'll have to look into this as well!
Please do and spread the word to family and friends to research and find better masks. If people are now not practicing social distancing, I have to wonder if they ever observed good hygiene practices. So, my best protection is one I can control -- i.e., wearing the most protective and well-fitting mask available.
Rose,
Great suggestion for all.
I have been attempting to do so since the pandemic- some take it seriously, some do not.
We can educate others on the risks, benefits. Many who have been er been sick take precautions too lightly.
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