Will the N95 masks protect from swine flu?

Answer 1

Surgical masks help stop droplets from spreading, but "respirators", like those rated N95, are designed to filter sub-microscopic particles like flu viruses. If used correctly, respirators can reduce flu risk, the CDC says, however the N95 masks must be medically fitted to the face of the wearer to assure proper filtering of the particles. See the related questions below for more information.

Answer 2

Yes, it is the type recommended by the World Health Organization and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Regular surgical masks offer little to no protection from getting the virus but it can help prevent someone who has the virus from giving it to others. N95 masks must be properly fitted or they are ineffective, too. For additional information on when the different types of masks might or might not be helpful with Swine Flu, see the related questions below.

Answer 3

Very - simple filter masks like you can buy at a hardware store can greatly reduce exposure risk.