N95 face masks available from Walmart include, top, Patriot N95, made in the U.S., foldable, NIOSH approved, $94.97 for 40 masks; and bottom, Harley N95, NIOSH approved, $36.98 for a box of 20. (Walmart.com)

With the number of cases of COVID-19 raising again, you may have considered using a face mask that offers more protection than a cloth version.

The N95 respirator mask is considered the best option for filtering airborne particles.

On Aug. 31, Pa. Gov. Tom Wolf issued a mandate making the wearing of face masks mandatory for all students and staff at all schools in the state.

The N95 respirator masks are regulated in the U.S. by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, a division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The KN95 masks are regulated by the Chinese government.

N95 masks fit tighter around the face so as to not allow air in around the edges. The KN95 masks have a looser fit. N95 masks, according to the CDC, “filters at least 95% of airborne particles but [are] not resistant to oil-based particles.” You can find more information about N95 masks from the CDC here.

Masks that are approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health will be marked with the NIOSH number.

Here are places where you can buy N95 masks:

DemeTECH N95 respirator mask, foldable, made in the U.S., are $55 for a box of 20 from Amazon.

Powecom KN95′s are not authorized for health care workers but are appropriate for other consumers.

At wellbefore.com, shoppers can buy masks one at a time or in a quantity of their own choosing. The company also sells masks specifically for kids.

Americhem is a company based in Middletown. Masks can be purchased there, 1401 AIP Drive.

Customers can call, 717-939-7100 or send an email to orders@americhem.net.

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