How Does a Face Mask Stop Germs From Spreading?
By Holly Phillips, MD•
COVID-19
african american woman wearing face mask outside while talking on the phone
In our global battle against the Coronavirus pandemic, it’s become clear face masks, along with other measures like social distancing and hand washing can slow the spread of the virus.
There are a few different kinds of masks but they work in similar ways.
How do surgical masks work?
Surgical masks are loose-fitting, they are usually blue on the outside and they look a bit like an accordion. They work by protecting the wearer from respiratory droplets splashes and sprays that may contain germs. They protect others by reducing the amount of viruses the person wearing the mask releases.
How do cloth masks work?
Now, cloth masks trap large droplets released when we cough, talk or sneeze. The best cloth masks are made from multiple layers of tightly woven cotton.
How do N95 masks work?
N95 masks offer more protection than surgical and cloth masks. And that's because they filter out both large and small respiratory particles. They fit tightly and health care workers are trained in how to confirm a proper seal before using them.
Because N95 masks are still in short supply in US health care facilities the CDC recommends cloth masks for the general public. Also, since cloth masks are more comfortable than most of the other kinds hopefully everyone will mask up and we can stop the virus together.
Holly Phillips, MD
Dr. Holly Phillips, a Board-Certified General Internist in private practice, is a journalist, author, television contributor, and medical expert for RxSaver. Featured regularly across multiple media outlets, Dr. Phillips first gained nationwide recognition as a Medical Contributor to CBS News and “Core Member” of the Dr. Oz Show. Frequently quoted in print, she has been a contributing editor for Prevention, and appeared in feature articles for Vogue, Self, and others. Dr. Phillips is the author of the book, “The Exhaustion Breakthrough,” published by Rodale. Dr. Phillips obtained her medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and trained at Lenox Hill Hospital. In practice, she addresses all Internal Medicine Conditions with a focus on preventive women’s health. Dr. Phillips is well versed in the foundations of complementary and alternative medicine and views these ideas as integral to the practice of medicine today. She lives in Manhattan with her husband, two young daughters and Pug.
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