It’s been two years since the COVID-19 pandemic first hit the United States, but people are still getting sick. Now, health officials are warning that a bad flu season is on the way.
If you want to know how best to protect your health, keep reading our CBS Essentials guide for everything you need to know about colds, flu and COVID-19, including masks, travel, testing kits and more.
Click on the links to see more in-depth articles on each topic, learn everything you need to know about the pandemic, and find product recommendations ahead of time to use during vaccination.
In 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said more than 90 percent of Americans could now consider removing their masks indoors. But masks are still required in some places, including some airlines and private businesses. If you plan to wear a mask, at the very least, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends you wear multiple layers that completely cover your mouth, nose, and chin. Today, fashion brands sell masks with eye-catching designs, as well as masks made specifically for sports. If you prefer this option, you may want to consider double shielding, layering cloth masks over disposable N95 masks or KN95 masks for an extra level of protection.
The N95 mask provides the best protection, but confusingly, there are KN95 masks with a similar name on the market. Unlike n95 masks, these have not been reviewed by the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health, but can provide roughly the same level of protection when worn correctly.
Check out the CBS Essentials guide to learn the differences between N95, KN95, surgical masks, and cloth masks to find what works best for you.
N95 mask/respirator
These masks provide the best protection against COVID-19 and the bacteria that cause colds and flu (at least by filtering more than 95% of air particles larger than 0.3 microns).
Unfortunately, many N95 masks are counterfeit. Check out the CBS Essentials article on how to spot fake N95 and KN95 masks.
Benehal MS8225 Most Acceptable Fit N95 Mask
Benehal MS8225 N95 mask is NIOSH-Approved. Right fit and near-perfect seal. Deeply trusted by healthcare professionals.
Fresh date and won’t expire until 2027
Shining Star SS6001-N95 Dental Mask
Shining Star SS6001-N95 mask is NIOSH certified. The approval number is TC-84A-8125. Most accepted N95 masks by dentists.
UNIAIR SH3500 N95 Mask NIOSH Certified
UNIAIR San Huei SH3500 is a special-designed N95 respirator that has a patented head strap buckle and continuous loop design which can provide maximum comfort. UNIAIR SH3500 is the best N95 option for users in a nursing home and dental.
Harley L-188 N95 Mask NIOSH Approved
Harley L-188 N95 mask is certified by CDC NIOSH. Harley L-188 flat fold N95 mask features with soft nose padding and spacious room. Elastic straps make sure best fitting. Top choose for athletes .
Hope everybody wear one.