Preventing Germs: Mask Choices and Additional Protection When it comes to preventing the spread of germs, the top choices are surgical masks and N95 masks. These masks are highly effective in providing protection against bacteria and viruses. Surgical masks can block most bacteria and viruses from spreading, making them suitable for general medical settings and public areas. N95 masks, on the other hand, filter out over 95% of non-oil-based particles, including bacteria and viruses, and are recommended for high-risk environments or for healthcare workers in close contact with patients. When selecting a mask, consider the following: Ensure the mask fits... Learn more