Video: MN Department of Health explains best practices when selecting, wearing, removing, and reusing masks.
How should I choose a mask?
Face masks help prevent the spread of COVID-19 when they are high quality and are worn consistently and correctly. Here are considerations to help you choose a mask and ensure you get the best protection from it.
Filtration. Properly fitted high-filtration masks such as N95s, KN95s, and KF94s offer the best protection. In absence of a high-filtration mask, people can improve the protection of their masks by wearing two masks (a cloth mask over a disposable mask).
Fit. Any mask is less effective if it is worn improperly or removed often, due to poor fit or discomfort. If you are wearing a high-filtration mask, ensure that it seals tightly to your face. Masks should fit snugly over your nose and mouth with no gaps.
Comfort. Some masks are harder to tolerate than others. Some people prefer ear loops and others prefer head straps. Try out a few styles of masks to find the right one for you.
Do your research to make sure the masks you purchase meet safety standards and are not counterfeit. The CDC has information on its website regarding what to look for when purchasing a mask. Other good options for buying masks include the nonprofit Project N95, pharmacies and home improvement stores.
What mask should I wear?
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The above graphic contains the following information:
Along with getting vaccinated or boosted, experts recommend upgrading your mask for the most protection.
Four images illustrate various degrees of protection:
Least protection – No mask or improper use. Don't use masks that are damp, dirty or damaged.
Better – Cloth masks. Washable and reusalble.
Still better – Surgical masks. Disposable, intended for one-time use.
Most protection – High-filtration masks. N95, KN95, KF94. Varies by mask type, but reusable up to five times with proper care.
Don’t delay: Treatment must be started within the first few days to be effective.
If you test positive and are an older adult or someone who is at high risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, treatment may be available. Contact a healthcare provider right away after a positive test to determine if you are eligible, even if your symptoms are mild right now.
You can also visit a Test to Treat location and, if eligible, receive a prescription from a provider.
Did you forget or misplace your COVID-19 vaccination card? Use the free Docket app to access your immunization history in Minnesota, including your COVID-19 vaccine. With Docket, you can share immunization records for health, school, travel, and other purposes.
If you’d like to access your immunization record another way, you may submit a request to the Minnesota Immunization Information Connection. Request your immunization record online or call their record request line at 651-201-3980.
COVID community coordinators support Minnesotans who need COVID-19 information specific to their communities, including in their languages. Coordinators help community members find and get critical resources to deal with health concerns, as well as employment, food access, housing, child care, and legal rights.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers up to $9,000 per funeral to individuals for any COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred on or after January 20, 2020. Learn more from FEMA.
