Can face masks protect you when you’re the only one wearing them?

United States mask mandates are changing. Now that COVID-19 cases are falling and 70% of people in the country have developed immunity, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) wants to give people “a break from things like wearing masks,” which is fine . Can face masks still provide some protection if you are the only person wearing them?

According to Popular Science, which has reviewed some research, the answer is yes. They pointed to a study published in the CDC that surveyed 1,800 people in California and showed that while masks are better at preventing you from spreading COVID-19 to others, they still offer significant protection. It said people who wore masks were 50% less likely to contract COVID-19 than those who didn’t.

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However, not all masks are the same. As we have already written, the face mask you wear is very important. A study has shown that surgical masks are 95% more efficient at filtering out particles compared to cloth masks, which only provide 35% of the protection. The most useful masks in order of effectiveness are KN95, surgical masks and cloth masks in last place.

While your chances of contracting COVID-19 increase when others around you aren’t wearing masks, wearing a face mask while COVID-19 rates are low in your area should provide some protection, giving you a should provide some level of security.

If you still want a little extra security, an N95 mask has been proven to offer up to 95% protection against COVID-19 particles. Just make sure it’s snug against your cheeks and jawline.

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Finally, remember that face masks are only part of an effective COVID-19 safety plan; It’s always important to consider factors such as your pre-existing medical condition, the rate of infection in your area, and the type of activity you participate in.