Literally just saw a “mask” that was just mesh with rhinestones
I cannot stress enough that masks do work, but just because you have on a “mask” doesn’t mean you’re protected.
For example a mask made out of 600 thread count cotton and chiffon fabric (with a nose wire and tight seal) is just as effective as an N95
Some tips for picking out and wearing masks:
Material matters! A mask made out of a single layer of 50 count cotton is only 9% effective as an N95 while a mask with 2 layers of 600 count cotton is almost as effective (97%)
If your face covering does not have a nose wire, it is at maximum only 50% as effective as an N95. If you have a choice, go with a snug fitting mask
If your mask is not covering your nose, it is not being effective
Do not move your mask out of the way to speak, speaking emits more virus containing droplets than breathing! if your mask gets in the way of taking that much, it’s not fiting properly, and you need to adjust it or switch masks
Avoid touching the outside of your mask when wearing it and taking it off
Change your mask if it’s wet! Moisture attracts contaminants and makes masks impossible to breath through. I suggest keeping multiple masks in your car and/or bag
Do not move your mask out of the way to touch your face, even if you’re wearing gloves
Gloves ≠ clean! If you are wearing gloves and you touch something dirty, your gloves are now dirty and you need to throw them away before you touch anything that needs to stay clean, including your face
When taking preventative measures, you can avoid spreading and contracting covid. I avoided getting my 3 roommates sick when I was positive for 4 weeks because I wore a mask when I left my room (as well as using disinfectant spray and having my own bathroom)