What kind of mask should I wear? - WHO

How to wear a medical mask safely (WHO)

 

Mask use in the context of COVID-19

This document provides updated guidance on mask use in health care and community settings, and during home care for COVID-19 cases. It is intended for policy makers, public health and infection prevention and control professionals, health care managers and health workers.

The Annex provides advice on how to manufacture non-medical masks. It is intended for those making non-medical masks at home and for mask manufacturers.     

Document - Interim Guidance (WHO) (582.9 KB).

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Masks (WHO Q&A)

What kind of mask should I wear?

Wearing a mask is one of the most important things we can all do to protect ourselves and those we love from COVID-19. But what kind of mask is best?

The WHO recommends that most people should wear a fabric mask, unless they are in a particular risk group. Medical or surgical masks should be reserved for people over 65, those with underlying medical conditions, who feel unwell, or who are taking care of someone who is ill.

The WHO says that a fabric mask should be washable and cover your mouth and nose with no gaps. Ideally, masks should be made of three layers of fabric:

• Inner layer of absorbent material, such as cotton.
• Middle layer of non-woven non-absorbent material, such as polypropylene.
• Outer layer of non-absorbent material, such as polyester or polyester blend.

Gater or bandana masks, and masks with valves, are not effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
A vaccine is our best hope for ending the pandemic. Until then, #WearAMask. Team Verified.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Masks (WHO Q&A)