Masking is a critical public health tool in preventing the spread of COVID-19. Along with testing, vaccinations and following isolation and quarantine guidelines, masking helps protect yourself and others from the coronavirus.

Although there are different types of masks that can be worn, it is important to remember that any mask is better than no mask.

Masks and respirators are effective at reducing the transmission of COVID-19 when worn consistently and correctly. However, some masks offer higher levels of protection than others; it is most important to wear a well-fitted mask correctly that is comfortable for you and that provides good protection.

CLOTH AND SURGICAL MASKS 

When choosing a mask, it is important to wear a covering that fits snugly against the sides of your face and doesn’t have any gaps, as well as covering your nose, mouth and chin. Cloth masks and surgical masks are widely available and provide multiple layers of breatheable material.

These masks can also be layered or combined with other masks for extra protection.

KN95, N95 AND OTHER RESPIRATORS 

While all masks and respirators provide some level of protection, properly fitted respirators, like the N95 and KN95, provide the highest level of protection, according to the CDC.

It is important if you wear an N95 or KN95 respirator to make sure it seals tightly to your face and does not have an exhalation valve, vent or other opening. Most publicly available respirators are disposable and should be discarded when they are dirty, damaged or difficult to breathe through.

CAMPUS MASK GUIDANCE 

With the spring semester underway, the campus community should be aware of updated masking guidance requiring masks to be worn indoors regardless of whether 6 feet of social distancing can be maintained, with some limited exceptions.

The change is being made to help protect the health and wellbeing of our community as the number of COVID-19 cases rise in our area and across the state. 

Wearing masks (and social distancing) also continues to be required in healthcare facilities and while using public transportation.

Visit the CDC’s online resource for additional guidance regarding masks and some tips on how to select the right mask for you, as well as tips on how to wash your reusable cloth masks.

The university's COVID-19 Response site continues to be updated during the pandemic with the latest news and information for the campus community.  

About the University of Arkansas: As Arkansas' flagship institution, the U of A provides an internationally competitive education in more than 200 academic programs. Founded in 1871, the U of A contributes more than $2.2 billion to Arkansas’ economy through the teaching of new knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship and job development, discovery through research and creative activity while also providing training for professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the U of A among the top 3% of U.S. colleges and universities with the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the U of A among the top public universities in the nation. See how the U of A works to build a better world at Arkansas Research News.