Colorado Doctor Encourages People To Wear Two Masks

A Colorado doctor is encouraging residents to consider doubling up on masks to help protect themselves and others from COVID-19.

For people primarily wearing cloth face coverings or surgical masks, wearing both can offer an extra layer of protection against the virus.

"Specifically what we're saying is that two masks may actually equal the protection you would get from N-95 masks, which is considered the best maks there is short of a complete respirator-type unit," said Dr. Dave Hnida in an interview with CBSN Denver.

Because the CDC urges the public to not wear N-95 masks for casual outings, as they are intended for healthcare workers, doubling up can be a solution for people who want more protection.

"The reason for that is you do wind up getting more filtration of viral particles, it becomes more of an obstacle course for the viral particle to make its way from the air into your nose and throat and then into your lungs," he continued.

Hnida pointed out that many coaches at NFL football games have been wearing two masks and even President-Elect Joe Biden has been doubling up for several months.

“Even in my own family, when we have outside contact — as limited as it may be — we double mask," said Hnida. "So the question is, ‘Is it effective?’ The answer is, ‘Yes’ and it’s something you may want to consider.”

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