4 FDA AND CDC APPROVED MASKS AVAILABLE IN THE PHILIPPINES
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is considering amending its mask guideline to advise individuals to use the extremely protective N95 or KN95 masks worn by healthcare workers. Read more to find out where to get safe and effective masks available in the country.
Banner art by Angelica Flores Juan
As the number of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines continues to rise, the IATF placed 28 more areas on Alert Level 3 starting January 14, 2021. And in the United States, the CDC is updating its guidelines on face masks to increase preventive measures against a highly transmissible COVID variant, Omicron. Cloth masks and surgical masks that are not categorized as medical-grade and not tight-fitting are seen as less effective than those medical-grade and tested masks.
There are numerous mask shops out there and often times it’s hard to tell their authenticity. Here are the 5 safe and effective masks that you can buy at local online stores:
3M KN95 MODEL 9501+
Price range: ₱
The Chinese standard KN95 is equivalent to the European FFP2 and the American N95. Perfect for non-oily particles including PM2.5, smog, and dust. The filtering efficiency is at least 95%. Ergonomic design that precisely suits your face. Soft inside material and a seamless chin construction make this garment extremely pleasant to wear. A nose clip that can be adjusted and two elastic fastening straps ensure a secure seal for optimal protection.
A reviewer said: “Great mask, seller. It’s a real 3M mask. Super-fast delivery. Thank you to the delivery riders and the international delivery courier too. Keep safe. Wear your mask.”
Powecom KN95 Masks
Price range: ₱
The Powecom KN95 personal respirator is a respirator mask made of a multi-layer filtration system of non-woven breathable fibers and is utilized globally. This is manufactured by Guangzhou Powecom Labor Insurance Supplies Co., Ltd. It is strongly advised that you try the KN95, which is extremely comfortable, well-textured, and pleasant to wear, and has EUA approval by US standards.
A reviewer said: “The mask arrived quickly and in good condition. It fits well and it doesn’t cause your glasses to fog up while wearing the mask, unlike the usual surgical face masks.” Rated it 5 stars.
Bio Selfcare Kids KF94 4 Ply Face Mask
Price range: ₱₱
KF94 is a quarantine-prepared mask by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, which is a mask performance standard that can pass over 94% of dust collection efficiency. It has a 4-layer structure filter, a KF94 MB filter, comfortable ear bands, and a measurement that fits perfectly among kids. With KF94’s well-fitting 3D folding structure, you won’t worry about your child’s protection against viruses and particles.
A reviewer said: “item was delivered fast; I think they have stocks or hub here in the Philippines. I was surprised that it was packed individually and not by 10’s. It fits perfectly with my 12yo son’s small face. Good quality.” Rated it 5 stars.
BYD N95 NIOSH Healthcare Particulate Respirator
Price range: ₱₱₱
If you have a larger budget and want a higher quality grade mask, the BYD N95 is available on local online stores for over a thousand pesos per box. Why is it so expensive? BYD is an American manufacturing company that passes FDA standards and goes through medical testing that verifies its efficacy against types of viruses, including COVID. Additionally, BYD CARE masks are National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) approved. ByD Care luckily has a distributor in the country, which lessens the cost of transport. This mask is suggested for medical health professionals who are often exposed to high-risk areas.
A reviewer said: “These are really good masks! I’ve tried them before but my supplier has run out of stock. I’m a health worker and it’s very important that we use really good masks at this time. I’ll order again!” Rated it 5 stars.
With the current status of the pandemic situation in the country, it’s understandable to feel tired. We’re all eager to get back on track and go back to how things were before. These masks are not the solution to the problem we have right now. Our country needs a better pandemic response. Our country needs more accessible testing and fewer capitalists taking over the market. But until then, let’s try to stay safe on our own. #StayHomeStaySafe.
