As mercury levels drop and people spend more time indoors, Canadians are reminded that wearing masks is more important than ever. 

But the mask you choose plays an indispensable role in preventing the spread of the coronavirus.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) emphasized that it continues to recommend three-layer non-medical masks that include an intermediate filter layer.

On November 12, PHAC issued an updated recommendation, further emphasizing that "the degree of protection provided by non-medical masks varies with the structure, number of layers, and materials used, and most importantly, the degree of fit of the mask is different."

When people gather in crowded spaces with poor ventilation, the risk of transmission is higher. Small droplets or aerosols may linger in the air, especially in indoor environments, and may infect other people nearby. The risk increases with activities that involve close conversations, singing, yelling, or shortness of breath (for example, during exercise).

BC Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry responded to this point at a press conference on November 16. To stick to your nose, it has at least three layers, and can include a filter layer in the middle, which is made of tightly woven fabric.

However, while non-medical masks usually help prevent the spread of COVID-19, PHAC noted that medical masks and respirators can provide "better protection."

Canada currently has no standards for non-medical masks. Medical masks and respirators sold in Canada must meet established filtration, air permeability, and fluid resistance standards.

People who are fully vaccinated may be infected and spread COVID-19, so they must still wear masks. In addition, there is evidence that “in some cases, the protection of the COVID-19 vaccine will decrease over time,” PHAC noted. 

No matter which type of mask you choose, the proper fit is a key factor in its effectiveness. 

Do not use a mask or respirator with an exhalation valve. PHAC emphasized that “they allow infectious respiratory particles to escape” and cannot prevent the spread of COVID-19.

If you choose to wear a non-medical mask, it should be made of the following materials:

Using a filter as an intermediate layer in non-medical masks can help capture smaller infectious respiratory particles.

You can add filters to non-medical masks in the following ways:

The reusable mask with integrated filter layer can be cleaned multiple times.

Find more information about the updated mask guidelines online through the Public Health Agency of Canada.