Hi there, thank you for sharing with us today. It can be worrisome thinking about the health and safety of your children during the pandemic, but it sounds like you have done some great research on effective face mask options for your son.
While N95 masks offer more protection than surgical masks, they are intended for healthcare providers and not recommended for the general public. Instead, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the use of reusable cloth face masks. Here are some tips on finding the best cloth face mask:
- Find a mask with two or more layers of washable material (such as cotton or linen)
- A mask that completely covers your face and mouth
- Fits snug against the sides of your face
For more information on finding and wearing cloth masks, visit the following websites:
1. CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html
2. Government of Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/prevention-risks/about-non-medical-masks-face-coverings.html#_Appropriate_non-medical_mask
CBC Canada also published a list of non-medical face masks you can order that have at least two layers of tightly woven fabric, and contain ties/ear loops, as per the Public Health Agency of Canada guidelines: https://www.cbc.ca/life/wellness/non-medical-face-masks-you-can-order-in-canada-1.5572511