What type of masks should be worn by the general public according to a WHO infection control expert?

The recommendation for the general public to wear fabric or cloth coverings is based on the understanding that while these masks may not provide the same level of protection as medical-grade masks, they are effective in reducing the spread of respiratory droplets, especially in community settings. Fabric masks can help prevent an infected person from transmitting the virus to others, which is crucial in controlling outbreaks. They are also more accessible and can be made from common materials, making it easier for people to obtain them.

Surgical masks and standard medical masks are typically reserved for healthcare professionals and situations where higher-level protection is necessary, such as in a clinical environment. N95 respirators offer a higher level of filtration and are designed to create a tight seal around the face, which is important in high-risk medical situations but not generally necessary for the general public in everyday scenarios. Therefore, the guidance for using fabric or cloth masks is aimed at encouraging broad usage among the public to reduce transmission while conserving more protective equipment for healthcare settings.