Types of Masks and Respirators
This page describes different types of masks and respirators you can use to protect yourself and others from getting and spreading COVID-19.
Masks are designed to contain your respiratory droplets and particles. They also provide you some protection from particles expelled by others.
Respirators are designed to protect you from particles, including the virus that causes COVID-19, and in doing so they also contain your respiratory droplets and particles so you do not expose others.
Disposable face masks are widely available. They are sometimes referred to as surgical masks or medical procedure masks.
Some masks are designed and tested to ensure they perform at a consistent level. These masks are labeled to tell you what standard they meet.
These are new standards. Lists of masks that meet these standards and more information on their availability can be found on the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Personal Protective Equipment Info (PPE-INFO) webpage.
