Two Masks Can Protect Against New COVID Variants, De Blasio says

By Yehudit Garmaise

   In light of the 82 patients in New York state who have tested positive with the UK variant of the COVID virus and the one patient in New York City who has tested positive with the South African variant, today, Dave A. Choskhi, MD, the city’s commissioner of health, insisted this morning that New Yorkers not only double down on taking public health precautions, such as social distancing, but New Yorkers should also wear not one mask, but two.

    “With these new variants, our public health precautions are more than ever necessary to protect ourselves and others,” said Dr. Chokshi, who added that when it comes to masks, “Two is better than one.”

   Dr. Chokshi also said that New Yorkers should ensure that their masks cover their noses and mouths properly.

   “Tight makes right,” said Dr. Chokshi, who explained that masks should fit snugly over people’s faces

   Instead of just wearing cloth masks, Dr. Chokshi, who after recovering from COVID-19, just returned to Mayor Bill de Blasio’s morning press conferences, Dr. Chokshi recommended that New Yorkers consider using higher grade masks, such as KN95 masks, which are made from five layers of filters and use mechanical filters that block 95% of harmful particles that could reach people’s noses and mouths.

   In addition, the KN95 masks have nose clips that can help the masks to be more tightly sealed over people’s faces. The N-95 masks, Dr. Chokshi said, are for use in healthcare settings.

Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office