How N95 fits, matters during COVID

“Fit matters. N95s need to be worn correctly to protect effectively,” said Dr. Nikki Vars McCullough, vice president and respiratory protection leader at 3M.

“Respirators must seal to your face to direct inhaled and exhaled air through the filter. They are designed to fit a wide-range of faces and move with your face as you talk,” said Dr. McCullough.

As the Omicron variant spreads rapidly, 3M noted it has been providing information about 3M N95 respirators – where to buy them, how to ensure a proper fit, and why they are considered the standard for protection.

“As we have throughout the pandemic, 3M is committed to making sure everyone who needs an N95 has access,” said Raymond Eby, president of 3M’s personal safety division.

“3M’s N95 respirators are NIOSH-approved and filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including those that may contain viruses,” said Eby.

Be aware of fakes

When purchasing N95 respirators, said 3M, be sure you are buying from a reputable seller.

“3M has been partnering with law enforcement to help combat fraud and counterfeiting in connection with our products and COVID. To date, we have helped seize more than 55 million counterfeit respirators,” said the company. More resources to help find authentic products are at 3m.com/covidfraud.

3M N95s are available at all major retailers and online platforms – and for occupational users through medical and industrial distributors, said the company, adding, 3M is the largest manufacturer of N95 respirators in the U.S., with manufacturing plants in South Dakota and Nebraska.

St. Paul, Minn.-based 3M said, “we apply science in collaborative ways to improve lives daily as our employees connect with customers all around the world.”