To protect yourself against the Delta Coronavirus Variant, should you wear a mask?

July 21, 2021 Best mask for delta variant

Experts warn that it is important to be vigilant as COVID-19-related cases continue to rise, even if one has been vaccinated.

Since July, the highly infectious Delta coronavirus strain has been the focus of media attention. It now accounts more than 80% for COVID-19 patients in the United States. This is a significant increase on the 50% it represented in July.

Coronavirus cases have been rising after a six-month decline. This is due to the delta variant. Friday's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report showed that the number of new coronavirus cases has increased by almost 70% in a week, and hospitalizations have increased by 36%. In California, new coronavirus cases saw a 90% increase from the previous week, according to end-of-day totals on Friday. In many Bay Area counties, there is also an increase in cases. Contra Costa County has seen more than doubling in cases in the past week.

Even fully vaccinated individuals are starting to worry about the variant's spread. Former Surgeon General Jerome Adams, M.D., even tweeted that he is worried the CDC made a "premature call" on its mask guidelines as Delta cases continue to rise.

Which masks help protect against the Delta variant?

Here are our suggestions:

1. RespoKare N95 Mask

Respokare N95 masks are at the forefront of cutting-edge respiratory anti-viral protection. These virus-fighting masks are equipped with four layers that can block >95% of micron particles and inactivate up to 99.9% of Coronaviruses in minutes.

Buy RespoKare Mask (5-30 Packs, $5.00+ per mask)

2. 3M Aura 920+ N95 Mask

3M 9205+ Aura™ N95 Particulate Respirators feature a unique upper panel that follows the contours of your nose allowing more room for glasses and optimizing one of the most comfortable fits for a N95 mask. The unique upper panel reduces the fogging of eyewear. Innovative chin tab designed for ease of positioning, donning, and adjustment.

Buy 3M Aura 9205+ N95 Mask (5-15 Packs, $4.00 per mask)

3. Moldex 2200 N95 Mask

NIOSH N95 certified to have a filter efficiency level of 95% or greater. Features a unique molded nose bridge which seals easily and snug. Dura-Mesh® shell resists collapsing in heat and humidity or after prolonged wear. Soft foam nose cushion for added comfort. Moldex 2200 is known to fit very snug for those looking for a maximum seal.