Are respirators effective against the coronavirus disease?

N95 respirators offer a higher level of filtration than cloth, surgical or procedural masks. However, they are not necessary to protect people from the virus under normal circumstances. In order to be optimally effective, respirators must be fit-tested and worn properly, tightly fitted against the person’s face.

Will a N95 filtering facepiece respirator mask protect me from COVID-19?

Yes, an N95 filtering facepiece respirator will protect you and provide source control to protect others. A NIOSH-approved N95 filtering facepiece respirator with an exhalation valve offers the same protection to the wearer as one that does not have a valve.

Does ventilation help prevent the spread of COVID-19?

Good ventilation, along with other preventive actions, like staying 6 feet apart and wearing masks, can help prevent you from getting and spreading COVID-19.

What is a N95 respirator?

N95 respirators are the PPE most often used to control exposures to infections transmitted via the airborne route, though their effectiveness is highly dependent upon proper fit and use.

Is it OK to use my asthma inhaler while I have COVID-19?

Q: Is it safe to use your asthma inhaler or controller medications if you have COVID-19? Yes, it is safe to use your asthma medications.

What is an N95 filtering facepiece respirator (FFR)?

An N95 FFR is a type of respirator which removes particles from the air that are breathed through it. These respirators filter out at least 95% of very small (0.3 micron) particles. N95 FFRs are capable of filtering out all types of particles, including bacteria and viruses.

Can fans be used to decrease the risk of COVID-19 transmission indoors?

Yes. While fans alone cannot make up for a lack of outdoor air, fans can be used to increase the effectiveness of open windows, as described in the CDC list of ventilation improvement considerations.

Why a ventilator is needed during the COVID-19 pandemic?

When your lungs inhale and exhale air normally, they take in oxygen your cells need to survive and expel carbon dioxide. COVID-19 can inflame your airways​​​​​​​ and essentially drown your lungs in fluids. A ventilator mechanically helps pump oxygen into your body.

Can I sterilize an N95 respirator during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Do not wash your N95 or put it in the oven or microwave to try to sterilize it. Replace the N95 when the straps are stretched out and it no longer fits snugly against your face or when it becomes wet, dirty, or damaged. Throw it in the trash.

Are asthma patients at higher risk for developing severe illness from COVID-19?

People with moderate-to-severe or uncontrolled asthma are more likely to be hospitalized from COVID-19. Take steps to protect yourself.