Coronavirus Cases Have Surged, But The US Is Refusing To Take The World’s Most Available Masks

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/respirator-use-faq.html

My N95 respirator has an exhalation valve, is that okay?

An N95 respirator with an exhalation valve does provide the same level of protection to the wearer as one that does not have a valve. The presence of an exhalation valve reduces exhalation resistance, which makes it easier to breathe (exhale). Some users feel that a respirator with an exhalation valve keeps the face cooler and reduces moisture build up inside the facepiece. However, respirators with exhalation valves should not be used in situations where a sterile field must be maintained (e.g., during an invasive procedure in an operating or procedure room) because the exhalation valve allows unfiltered exhaled air to escape into the sterile field.

if a valve lets air out it also lets a small amount of air in.

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