Health professionals, including the CDC, are warning us about masks with exhale valves ( a certain type of N-95 mask) being sold as more comfortable and cooler. Don’t buy them. They don’t meet requirements of the CDC or some areas, because it’s questionable about how effective they are in stopping the spread of COVID-19.
Here’s the thing. Most valves don’t have a filter. That means that when you exhale, everything — including droplets — are pushed out through the valve and into your surroundings. In other words, theses masks, like most others used properly, give you a little protection from other people, they do NOT protect your friends, loved ones, acquaintances, or strangers you get near to. So you may be spreading the virus. (Remember: you may be symptom-free or have been infected but not know it.)
And that’s the point of masks — to protect others while they’re protecting us.
Save your money and keep fighting this virus!
Read more: A Certain Type of N95 Mask May Do More Harm Than Good.
