Thread by @AbraarKaran

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1/ Just saying #BetterMasks isn’t good enough. How do we actually do this?

We already have supply across a number of certified options incl
•N95
•eN95
•KN95
•KF94
•surgical masks + mask fitters

Double masking can be good, but even here fit+filtration inconsistent

https://twitter.com/postopinions/status/1362734188902965249

2/ Biden administration needs to have an Operation #BetterMasks.

People keep asking me where & how to get certified retail N95s or KF94– frankly, I’m not sure. Some are real, others are counterfeit.

Entire states are having issues with this at scale.

cbsnews.com/amp/news/n95-m…

3/ There would need to be some vetting by CDC/NIOSH & other private labs to quickly assess mask quality.

We need DPA/American manufacturing to help ensure a continuous supply of verified high filtration masks.

Priority for high risk &/or high exposure + unvaccinated folks

4/ These masks will still be needed post-vaccination campaigns during vaccine booster campaigns, which we expect will be needed esp in light of new variants.

Fit is key- meaning annual fit testing is key as well. This should become integrated into primary care clinics etc

5/ Policy must follow supply- meaning if we are to mandate high grade masks in high risk settings during future surges, that supply must be brought to the public, esp to our most vulnerable.

Masks can be shipped home; alternatively or in conjunction, vouchers can be given out.

6/ Other countries used post offices and/ or vending machines for pickup.

We could have this at grocery stores, pharmacies, & other public spaces for people to access the masks.

There are many ways to get there

7/ There are trade offs to any decision.

Focusing on better masks may take attention away & public health departments are limited like any other entity

While cases have slowed, the administration could/should use this lull to begin cleaning up the supply chain for #bettermasks

8/ Ultimately, I think that vaccination campaigns are the bigger priority if the government is unable to do both right now

But I also think that #bettermasks are both a short and long term strategy to protect again respiratory pathogens/ future pandemics. #covid19