Yes, they absolutely do. Getting used to wearing masks has definitely been a challenge, but with COVID-19 cases spiking across the country, it has become more important than ever to mask up in public.

Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Easley further explains.

How Do Masks Work?

Masks limit the number of respiratory droplets in the air, which essentially means that harmful viral particles are contained in each person’s mask. Because these particles are contained in our masks, it will reduce the risk of virus transmission.

Additionally, studies have also shown that the infection rate in cities that have implemented mask mandates has significantly decreased. We’ve listed more reasons masks are beneficial below.

More Benefits of Masking Up

• Can be effective protection when social distancing isn’t possible
• Helps protect those who are more susceptible to getting the virus, like pregnant mothers and those with underlying health conditions
• Prevents those infected from spreading the virus
• Reduces your own chances of getting COVID-19
• Will work toward opening up the economy by slowing the spread

What Kind of Mask Offers the Best Protection?

An N95 mask technically offers the most protection as it filters out 95% of air particles, but the CDC doesn’t recommend these for public use because they’re critical supplies for healthcare workers.

At the beginning of the pandemic, surgical and cloth masks were OK’d by the CDC to wear. But since COVID-19 rates are still increasing, surgical masks are also deemed as essential supplies for healthcare workers. This means that when choosing a mask to wear in public, wear a double-lined cloth mask. These masks offer adequate protection from airborne viral particles as they filter out roughly 79% of those particles.

More Ways to Slow the Spread of COVID-19

• Remain six feet apart from others outside your household.
• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• If you don’t have access to soap and water, use hand sanitizer.
• Stay home if you feel sick.
• Limit long-distance travel.

Are you in need of a COVID-19 test? Don’t wait to schedule your test at AFC Urgent Care Easley! We are here for you during this pandemic and always.