Thread by @AbraarKaran

1/ Important Aug 2020 commentary from @CDCDirector in @JAMA_current on N95 masks

Even with suboptimal fit, N95 significantly better than unfitted surgical masks (let alone cloth)

This was pre-Delta, pre-Omicron

jamanetwork.com/journals/jamai…

2/ later in the commentary, authors refer to pragmatism around mask use and cite that N95 masks are suffocating and uncomfortable

Here, I disagree bc as mentioned there are many models; users should be allowed to decide

And user seal check is a very teachable process

3/ additionally they cite cost issues for consumers

I agree— which is why these masks should be made free during times of crisis or surges.

You should not have to go out and find the right masks

Please @CDCDirector - incorporate better masks into this surge & the next

4/ with increased transmissibility of #Omicron, we are vulnerable to huge surges

Agree vaccines are excellent & work for most (although less so for our patients with immune compromise) to prevent severe disease/death

But as we are seeing- still a problem
boston.com/news/coronavir…