Health experts say wearing a mask provides protection against COVID-19, both for the person wearing it and those around them. Now, CBS Denver reports, there is some evidence that wearing two masks provides even more protection.
The station’s medical editor, Dr. Dave Hnida spoke about those reports in an interview on CBSN Denver.
“Research has shown that two masks are actually better than one,” said Hnida. “What we’re saying in particular is that two masks could actually be equivalent to the protection you would get from N-95 masks, which is considered the best mask out there, aside from a full-blown respirator.”
He said wearing a surgical mask with a cloth mask over it provides an extra layer of protection.
“The reason is that you end up getting more filtration of virus particles. It becomes more of an obstacle course for the viral particle to make its way from the air to your nose and throat and then to your lungs.”
But Hnida warns that three masks may be going too far, as it could interfere with the ability to breathe.
He pointed out that Joe Biden had been “double masking” for months, as have NFL coaches at games.
“Even in my own family, when we have contact with the outside world – however limited that may be – we double mask,” said Hnida. So the question is, ‘Is it effective?’ The answer is ‘yes’ – and it is something you may want to consider. ”