The CDC tested two different mask modifications -- putting a three-layered cloth mask over a surgical mask and “knotting and tucking,” where someone knots the ear loops of a surgical mask and tuck in the excess material to reduce the gaps on the side of the face. AdCDC director Dr. Rochelle Walensky discussed the new research designed to evaluate different strategies to improve masks’ ability to block particles. Putting a cloth mask over the surgical mask and knotting and tucking the mask both boosted protection. “Based on this new information, the CDC is updating the mask information for the public on the CDC website to provide new options on how to improve mask fit,” Walensky said. The new options include wearing a mask with a moldable nose wire or wearing a cloth mask over a surgical mask.

DETROIT – As concern grows over the new and more contagious COVID-19 variant experts are urging Americans to upgrade their masks or consider double masking especially in higher risk situations. Health experts warn the new COVID-19 variant could become the dominant strain by March. We should be getting higher quality masks and people should be wearing higher quality masks, more or less right away,” said Ashish Jha, a public health expert. Experts now say the next best thing may be double masking. If you’re going to double mask, experts say you want to make sure the higher quality mask is closest to your face, then layer the additional mask over that making sure you have a snug fit over your mouth and nose.