Want to know which face masks work in the age of Covid-19? Surgical or medical masks are the best, cotton (or reusable) masks are good while bandanas are the worst, according to a new droplet study. Health experts have determined that face coverings are a vital tool in reducing the spread of coronavirus
A new study has ranked 14 types of commonly available mask, finding that medical masks offer significantly more protection against droplet spread than cotton alternatives—while bandanas and balaclavas don't do much at all.
The findings have public policy implications, particularly in the United States where authorities have encouraged the public to use textile masks and leave the medical products to healthcare workers because they are in short supply.