What's the best face mask for COVID-19 in Australia?

Although COVID-19 case numbers may be low compared to previous years, living with COVID-19 is likely a reality we have to face. But, if you choose to wear a mask, what type of face mask is best?

What type of face mask is required in Australia?

Mask wearing in the general community isn’t currently mandated in Australia, including at airport terminals, but the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) still recommends wearing a mask in indoor spaces or where you can’t physically distance yourself from others.

The committee has said that “individuals choosing to wear masks in the community may use any type of well-fitted mask” and that cloth masks are “appropriate in most circumstances”.

Generally, a face mask can be a reusable cloth face mask, a surgical mask or respirators, such as N95 or P2 masks. Masks must be fitted to your face and cover both your nose and mouth. Although not considered a substitute for face masks, a face shield may be used if you’re unable to wear a mask due to an exemption. Scarves and bandanas are also not considered face masks.

Associate professor in epidemiology at Deakin University Hassan Vally wrote in The Conversation, that: “We can also reduce the likelihood of spreading COVID by masking up in high-risk settings, socialising in well-ventilated spaces, and staying away from others when unwell.”

What type of mask should I wear?

Particulate filter respirators (PFRs) such as N95 and P2 masks can offer a level of protection against the spread of COVID-19 if used correctly, according to a number of experts.

But the Infection Prevention and Control Expert Group (ICEG) advises Australians that there’s currently limited evidence that PFRs provide additional benefits for those wearing them in the community.

It’s important that any mask is worn correctly and works best when worn with a tight seal to the face, which can be difficult and uncomfortable to maintain in a day-to-day setting.

If you’re unsure which mask suits your needs, we explore the different types of masks available in Australia.

Different types of masks

What is a N95 or P2 mask?

N95 and P2 masks (types of PFRs) are designed to filter out particles, including the virus that causes COVID-19, explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

They can also catch and contain droplets and particles you breathe, cough or sneeze, so you don’t spread the virus to other people. N95 and P2 masks are designed to filter at least 95% of particles in the air when fitted correctly.

The main difference between N95 and P2 masks is how they are certified. N95 masks are subject to US certification standards, while P2 masks are subject to Australian and New Zealand standards.

Even then, only the P2 masks that are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) can be labelled as suitable to help prevent the transmission of disease and provide antimicrobial or antiviral protection between people.

For example, Australia’s Department of Health and Age Care advises that N95 or P2 masks designed typically for industrial use – such as for construction sites to protect against dust – would not be regulated by the TGA and cannot be advertised to help prevent transmission of disease between people.

There are also other PFRs, including KN95 masks (Chinese standards) and KF94 masks (Korean standards).

Can you reuse N95 or P2 masks?

When used by healthcare workers, N95 and P2 masks are meant to be single-use. But some experts have said you can reuse them under certain circumstances and conditions to conserve supplies.

When face mask supplies are low, the CDC advised that N95 masks can be reused but should not be reused more than five times when no manufacturer guidance is available.

Peter Tsai, the inventor of the fabric used to make N95 masks, told CNN he recommends buying seven N95 masks and rotating them daily, so that any bacteria becomes inactive.

Where can I buy N95 or P2 masks?

N95 and P2 masks can be bought from pharmacies such as Chemist Warehouse, medical supply stores such as Vital Medical Supplies, Medcart and PPE Tech, and other retailers such as Bunnings and Officeworks.

But keep in mind that stock levels may vary depending on current demand and check the labelling before buying as not all masks sold are designed for disease prevention.

What is a surgical mask?

A surgical mask is a single-use disposable mask. They are designed to protect you from droplets and create a barrier between droplets and your nose and mouth. There are three levels of surgical masks (level 1, 2 or 3), with increasing levels of barrier protection.

The Australian Government’s Department of Health and Aged Care warns that single-use masks should not be re-used and should be discarded immediately after use.

What is a cloth mask?

A cloth mask is a non-medical mask that can be washed and reused. They can also help to reduce your exposure to infectious droplets and particles. The Australian Government’s Department of Health and Aged Care advises that cloth masks should be washed after each use, or daily at a minimum.

The New South Wales government recommends that reusable cloth masks should have at least three-layers of fabric in order to provide adequate protection. It also says having a fluid-repellent layer on the outside layer of the mask can give the best protection.

Cover image source: Christian Horz/Shutterstock.com