Health experts say wearing a mask provides protection against COVID-19 for both the person wearing it and those around them. Now, according to CBS Denver, there is evidence that wearing two masks can offer even more protection.
The station’s medical editor, Dr. Dave Hnida, spoke about these reports in an interview with CBSN Denver.
“Research has been supported that two masks are, in fact, better than one,” Hnida said. “Specifically what we’re saying is that two masks can match the protection you’d get from N-95 masks, which is considered the best mask missing a full respirator-type unit.”
He said wearing a surgical mask with a cloth mask provides an extra layer of protection.
“The reason for this is that you end up getting more viral particle filtration. It becomes an obstacle course for the viral particle to pass from the air to the nose and throat and then to the lungs.”
But Hnida warns that three masks may go too far, as this could interfere with the ability to breathe.
He noted that Joe Biden has been “double-masked” for many months, as have NFL coaches in games.
“Even in my own family, when we have external contact (however limited it may be) we make ourselves a double mask,” Hnida said. “So the question is, ‘Is it effective?’ The answer is “yes” and it’s something you might want to consider. “