Table 2.

Face mask features and applications.

Mask type	Features	Applications
Cloth face mask	Source control Reusable Porous fabric provides limited or no protection of the wearer May decrease the generation of aerosolized particles from the wearer	Community use Asymptomatic patients Non-patient facing health care workers
Surgical face mask	Source control and limited protection Disposable Protects wearer from splashes and sprays Gaping of sides of mask limits seal	Within 6 feet of direct patient care (including surgery) of a patient who does not have COVID-19. Non-aerosolizing procedures.
Respirators: Filtering facepiece respirators
• N95 respirator	Protective Disposable Filters at least 95% of viral particles Protects from splashes and sprays. Fit is imperative (i.e., avoidance of facial hair).	Direct patient care within 6 ft of COVID-positive patient including aerosolizing procedures. Can be used in surgery.
• Elastomeric half mask	Similar to N95 Reusable	Similar to N95 Cannot be used in surgery
Powered air purifying respirator (PAPR)	Protective Reusable Filters at least 99% of viral particles. Protects from splashes and spills Loose fitting therefore can be used with facial hair or without fit testing.	Direct patient care within 6 ft of COVID-19-positive patient including aerosolizing procedures. Ideally should not be used in surgery.