Emmi Explains: The science behind double masking

The CDC updated its guidance on masks, saying it might be advisable to wear two masks to better prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Yahoo News Producer Emmi Vélez explains.

Video transcript

EMMI VELEZ: Hey! Hey, you. I'm talking to you. Are you wearing two masks yet? The CDC updated its guidance on mask wearing, saying it might be the time to double up to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. But honestly, some people are still having trouble just wearing one mask. So here's exactly what you need to know.

First, the whole point of wearing a mask is to keep your germs in and other people's out. Make sure your mask fits snugly all the way from the top of your nose around the sides of your mouth and then underneath your chin. If you're wearing it under your nose, above your chin, or really anywhere else, I'm sorry, but you're doing it wrong.

The CDC recommends that you find a mask with a nose wire. That makes for a better fit. And as anyone who could wear glasses will tell you, it stops your lenses from completely fogging up. If you're having trouble getting a tight fit with a disposable mask, you can tie a knot at the end of the ear loops. Or you can also get something called a brace or fitter put over the top of the mask, which will help seal all the edges, help the mask keep its shape, and make it more comfortable to wear for longer stretches of time.

Honestly, the ear loops can get a little uncomfortable. But you can get a strap that connects them to take some of the pressure off the back of your ears.

When it comes to double masking, your best bet is to use a paper or surgical mask with a cloth mask over it. You should not wear two disposable masks at the same time. It actually might make your fit worse. If you do choose to double mask this way, you should still wash your cloth mask between your uses and then just throw out the disposable ones.

Also, if you happen to have a KN95, that's totally good on its own. You do not have to combine a KN95 with any other mask. Oh, and you should still totally wear masks even if you've already been vaccinated. Finally, and pretty importantly, make sure that you can still breathe. Ahh! And that is everything you needed to know about wearing a double mask but were maybe too afraid to ask.

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