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N95 masks offer 95 percent protection from airborne particulates as small as 0.3 microns
N95 masks offer 95 percent protection from airborne particulates as small as 0.3 microns Pexels

The latest Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines recommend that fully vaccinated individuals still wear masks in public indoor settings where the chances of transmitting air-borne disease are significant or high. The guidelines also extend to teachers, students, staff, and those who are immunocompromised or have someone at home with existing illnesses.

At present, 187.7 million people or 65.5 percent of the U.S. population have been fully vaccinated, and 8.5 million people have been administered a booster dose, as per the CDC's COVID-19 vaccination tracker. While these numbers bring hope, there's still a long way to go to completely vaccinate the population.

While the unvaccinated are at a higher chance of contracting COVID-19, the CDC is currently gathering data to understand breakthrough infections in fully vaccinated people. Although vaccines prevent severe illnesses, some fully vaccinated individuals, like those with compromised immune systems, might still contract and spread the virus. So, as we learn more about the virus and the possibilities of breakthrough infections in fully vaccinated people, following CDC guidelines of maintaining hygiene and wearing face masks would be a wise decision.

Unfortunately, buying authentic masks that offer the highest protection might not be as simple as it seems. The Department of Homeland Security tracked and seized around 11 million fake N95 masks in February 2021 to prevent them from reaching medical workers and the general public. With countless personal protective equipment (PPE) manufacturers and suppliers popping up globally since the onset of the pandemic, counterfeit masks that are difficult to differentiate from authentic ones have crept in and remain in circulation.

How to Identify Counterfeit Masks

  • N95 masks are approved by the CDC and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). So, N95 masks will have a NIOSH approval number imprinted on the mask or the packaging, which you can verify on the NIOSH database.
  • Counterfeits usually have spelling errors, altered numbers, and forged logos.
  • Avoid masks that are sold loose or come with substandard packaging without user instructions.
  • While many prefer fashionable masks, fabric add-ons like sequin or any kind of modification to the N95 mask could affect filtration capacity and void the warranty. They might not even offer the highest possible protection.

What are N95 Masks?

N95 masks are the most common type of particulate filtering facepiece respirators. They follow U.S. standards and are approved and regulated by the CDC and NIOSH. Typically, these masks are designed to offer 95 percent against air-borne particles at the micron level using multiple layers of propylene. They often come with adjustable straps and nose pins that offer a firm seal around the face for optimum protection. As per a 3M factsheet, N95 masks might offer slightly better breathability compared to KN95 masks.

Where to Buy N95 Masks Online

While there are several brands and resellers online, WellBefore is an online website that actually verifies the authenticity of each mask through third-party lab tests before they go live on their platform.

Masks on the WellBefore website display important details like NIOSH and FDA approval details, lab test results, and manufacturer details wherever applicable. WellBefore usually offers a 48-hour doorstep delivery and offers attractive discounts on bulk purchases. Here are some top-rated N95 masks that you can find on their online platform:

RespoKare N95 Surgical Respirator Mask With Antimicrobial/Antiviral Agent - FDA Cleared NIOSH Approved

The RespoKare N95 Surgical Respirator Mask With Antimicrobial/Antiviral Agent is a popular choice given their FDA-cleared patented antiviral technology. The NIOSH-approved 4-layered N95 mask has an outer layer with hydrophilic plastic coating and citric acid followed by a layer containing copper and zinc ions.

It offers 95 percent protection against airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns and is highly effective against 18 kinds of flu viruses and pathogens in specified contact conditions.

The mask comes with over-the-head head straps and a nose pin for a nice fit, and costs $2.99 apiece.

FDA 510(K) clearance: K122702

NIOSH approval: TC-84A-7796

Patent numbers: US 8,678,002 B2 and US 9,963,611 B2

Harley L-188 N95 Folding Mask - NIOSH Approved

The Harley L-188 N95 Folding Mask is a durable and foldable mask that offers over 99 percent filtration efficiency for particles as small as 0.3 microns, as per tests conducted by the National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory (NPPTL).

The foldable mask makes it easy to carry in small spaces without damaging the structural integrity, whereas the mask components contain no rubber latex to avoid any kind of unwanted reactions. Extra nose padding and adjustable over-the-head straps offer a comfortable fit with a complete seal around the face.

It only costs $1.99 apiece with options for bulk-purchase discounts.

NIOSH approval: TC-84A-6973

Lab test results: NPPTL International Respirator Assessment

Approval for healthcare use: FDA Authorization

Kimberly Clark (Kimtech(TM)) 53358 N95 Pouch Respirator - NIOSH Approved

The NIOSH-approved Kimberly Clark(TM) Kimtech(TM) 53358 N95 Pouch Respirator has a unique duckbill-style design, offering a larger internal breathing space for better air circulation while offering a tight seal around the face.

The mask is designed to filter 95 percent of airborne particles and contains two layers of melt-blown layers to allow fewer particles to pass through without affecting filtration efficiency. Over-the-head foam straps and an adjustable nose pin facilitates a snug fit. This mask costs only $1.99 apiece.

Online orders under 50 pieces or not in increments of 50 for these masks won't include the original manufacturer packaging, and will be boxed separately with careful handling. For the Kimberly Clark(TM) Kimtech(TM) 53358 N95 Pouch Respirator, WellBefore allows you to pay in four interest-free installments for orders up to $3,000 with ShopPay.

NIOSH Approval: TC-84A-9042

With a 4.8 rating based on 12,000 product reviews and over 240,000 satisfied consumers, WellBefore is known for selling authentic masks and other PPE gear such as face shields, gloves, and gowns. They also have a dedicated customer support team on standby in case any problems arise.

Order your N95 masks from WellBefore now.

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