Rumor Refutation:Can an ordinary mask turned into an N95 mask by tying a knot?

Medical surgical masks are primarily designed for bacterial filtration and have lower requirements for filtration efficiency of saline particulate matter compared to N95 masks.
In terms of material: Both the filtration layers of N95 masks and medical surgical masks use polypropylene melt-blown material.
In terms of layers: Medical surgical masks are typically three-layered, with an outer water-resistant layer, a middle filtration layer, and an inner absorbent layer.

N95 masks generally have more than three layers, usually four to six, with the outer and inner layers serving the same functions as surgical masks, but the middle layer differs among brands in terms of the number of layers and serves as the filtration layer.
In summary, compared to medical surgical masks, N95 masks offer a higher level of protection.
Healthcare workers must wear N95 masks when in contact with patients with respiratory infectious diseases.

For ordinary individuals, it is recommended to wear N95 masks when visiting medical institutions for treatment or accompanying others for treatment or medication, visiting elderly individuals, infants, or those with underlying medical conditions, and in crowded and poorly ventilated enclosed spaces such as supermarkets, public transportation, and elevators in public buildings, if conditions permit, to provide stronger protection.

In daily life, wearing common medical surgical masks is sufficient to block most virus-laden droplets from entering the respiratory tract when outdoors in open and well-ventilated areas or in well-ventilated places.
Proper wearing is crucial for both types of masks, ensuring that they cover the nose and mouth and maintain a snug fit with the face.