Which mask is most effective in blocking Covid-19?

(Dan Tri) - Among the myriad of choices from cloth masks, medical masks to high-end types like N95, which type should people choose to prevent disease most effectively?

As the number of Covid-19 cases in many countries tends to increase again, wearing masks has once again become a top concern. However, among countless options from cloth masks, medical masks to high-end types such as N95, which type should people choose to prevent the disease most effectively?

Masks – physical barriers to limit droplets

First of all, according to epidemiologists, masks act as a physical barrier to limit droplets – the main transmission route of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. However, the story is not as simple as “wearing a mask is enough”.

According to epidemiologists, masks act as a physical barrier to limit droplets (Photo: Getty).

Studies have shown that the SARS-CoV-2 virus can survive on both hard and soft surfaces, including fabrics.

According to the journal The Lancet Microbe , the virus can survive for about 24 hours on cotton and up to 72 hours on polyester. However, many experts believe that the possibility of infection through fabric surfaces is very low in reality.

Dr. Julian Tang, a virologist at the University of Leicester (UK), said that fabric has high moisture absorption, causing the virus to dry quickly and lose its activity faster.

Meanwhile, Ms. Lisa Maragakis - Director of infection prevention at Johns Hopkins Health System - said that the virus is more easily transmitted through hard surfaces than through fabrics.

Which type of mask is most effective in preventing disease?

Based on the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the effectiveness of some common types of masks can be distinguished as follows:

1. 3-layer disposable medical mask

Disposable masks are very popular (Photo: Getty).

- Uses: Prevents large droplets, bacteria and dirt.

- Efficiency: Filters about 60–80% of small particles, but does not fit completely on the face.

- Recommendation: Suitable for public places, medium risk environments. Do not reuse.

2. Cloth masks

Cloth masks can be reused many times (Photo: Getty).

- Uses: Reduces the spread of droplets from the wearer into the environment.

- Efficiency: Filtration efficiency depends on the number of layers and material. 2–3 layers, tight-fitting and densely woven will be more effective.

- Note: SARS-CoV-2 virus can stick to fabric surfaces for up to 24 hours (cotton) or 72 hours (polyester), so it needs to be washed and dried in the sun every day.

- Recommendation: Suitable for daily use if there is no close contact with a suspected infected person. Do not share, should have at least 2-3 to rotate.

3. N95, KN95, FFP2 masks

N95 masks provide the highest level of protection (Photo: Getty).

- Uses: Effectively filters 95% of particles as small as 0.3 micrometers - superior to other types of masks.

- Efficiency: Designed to fit the face, minimizing air leakage.

- Recommended: For medical staff, people working in high-risk environments. For the general public, can be used during hospital trips, crowded and windless places.

Using masks properly is very important.

Regardless of the type of mask used, wearing it correctly is still key. Many people have the habit of touching the outside of the mask or reusing medical masks. These behaviors significantly reduce the effectiveness of disease prevention.

Experts emphasize that masks must be properly disposed of after each use. Cloth masks should be washed in warm water and dried in the sun. Medical masks, such as N95s, should never be reused without specific instructions.

More importantly, masks are not “all-purpose armor”. Wearing a mask should be accompanied by frequent hand washing, limiting contact with crowded places and keeping a safe distance.

In particular, in case of suspected contact with an infected person or suspected symptoms, it is necessary to change clothes immediately, wash them and wash hands thoroughly.

If we had to choose the best mask for Covid-19 prevention, experts agree that N95 masks are the ideal option, especially for those working in high-risk environments. However, for the majority of people, good quality medical masks or cloth masks, used and cleaned properly, are completely sufficient to protect themselves and the community.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/khoa-hoc/khau-trang-nao-chan-covid-19-hieu-qua-nhat-20250529093053772.htm