For a while, many people in the U.S. haven’t been worried too much about COVID. The coronavirus looks like it might have other ideas.
Recently, a new subvariant called EG.5 has been circulating right as back-to-school season begins. The strain, also called Eris, is part of the XBB types that stem from the original omicron variant; EG.5, along with the XBB subvariants, has been responsible for an increase in cases around the country. Depending on your situation, it may be important to protect yourself in as many ways as possible, including having tests on hand, avoiding crowds, getting a vaccination booster, considering using or building an air purifier and wearing the best mask you can when you’re in higher-risk situations.
This might include styles like snug-fitting surgical masks or KN95, KF94 and N95 masks, which are no longer prioritized for health workers. Studies have shown that N95 masks filter out small particles in the air most effectively, followed by surgical masks, and both are better than cloth. KN95s are the Chinese version of the American N95 while the KF94 is the Republic of Korea’s equivalent, and both have at times been more available to buy during the pandemic than N95s.
It’s important to know how to spot a counterfeit face mask while you’re shopping. Meanwhile, check out these solid options that are either highly recommended by reviewers or carry specific agency approvals.
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