KN95 Masks For Sale

KN95 masks have similar BFE powers that a NIOSH N95 mask has, with the only difference being that KN95s are no longer FDA-approved. This approval has recently been removed, though bulk quantities of KN95 masks are still available for sale in warehouses across the USA. KN95 masks are not recommended for healthcare workers in direct contact with covid variants. These medical-grade face masks offer up to 95% Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE). A high BFE at 95% is able to stop airborne pathogens (bacteria and viruses), droplets, dust particles, and other non-fluids.

What to Consider?

There are a few things to consider when choosing either a KN95 or N95 mask. The first is, in which setting will you be wearing the medical-grade mask? Safety and authorization are important for medical centers since the FDA no longer provides approval for KN95 masks. Non-healthcare workers can still use a KN95 mask for their day-to-day activities like errands, work, or spending time with loved ones.

Should Healthcare Workers Wear a KN95 Mask?

Healthcare workers are responsible for their health and the safety of their patients. Because of this, it is imperative for essential workers in healthcare settings to use an N95 mask that is NIOSH-approved and authorized by the FDA for effective use against covid and other pathogens.

Do I Need These for Personal Use?

If you do not work in a healthcare setting and your goal is to simply wear a medical-grade face mask to prevent the spread of airborne pathogens, then a KN95 mask will work for you. KN95 masks are reusable up to 10 times while NIOSH N95 masks are single-use. The elastic ear loops comfortably fit all adults and some children thanks to their universal one-size-fits-all design. 

Terms to Understand:

NIOSH - This is a USA Federal agency called the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health which is responsible for research and recommendations to prevent injuries in the workplace.

FDA - This is a Federal Agency in the USA called the Food and Drug Administration. It is responsible for protecting public health by creating regulations and recommendations.

FDA Approval - The FDA approves products for safe use after they are already for sale. For medical devices, the FDA clears and approves of products that reach a safe risk level for the user.

BFE - Bacterial Filtration Efficiency is the percentage that a mask can prevent bacteria and pathogens from penetrating your mask. A higher BFE means the mask prevents nearly all pathogens from entering the mask. A low BFE means the mask material is thin and allows bacteria to flow through easily.