With COVID-19 Omicron cases starting to rise in Saskatchewan, Medical Health Director Dr. Saqib Shahab has advice on which type of mask is the most effective.
As of Thursday, there are 27 confirmed cases of Omicron in the province and 121 probable cases detected through screening.
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During a briefing on COVID-19 on Tuesday, Shahab said that a well-worn three-layer mask has always been a good option. Some people may also choose to add a filter to the mask.
For those who are at higher risk, Shahab suggests a medical mask that fits snugly around the face and has a nose clip to prevent leakage from the sides.
Shahab noted that many people are considering changing their mask to a KN95 or N95 respirator, which can be especially important for those who are severely immunosuppressed and in a situation where they could be exposed.
“It could be important in crowded environments with poor ventilation,” Shahab said.
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In Manitoba, the provincial government is providing free boxes of KN95 masks in liquor stores and casinos.
Health officials across the country have also advised people to pick up N95 masks, saying single-layer fabric masks are not enough for Omicron.
– with a file from Shane Gibson, Kayla McLean
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