It's important to note that surgical masks are very different from N95 respirators. Surgical masks are designed to provide fluid resistance and air filtration to the wearer. Surgical masks are usually rated by ASTM standards. ASTM levels are based on bacterial filtration efficiency, differential pressure, sub-micron particulate filtration efficiency, resistance to penetration by synthetic blood, and flammability. Most surgical masks will have an ASTM 1, ASTM 2, or ASTM 3 rating. While these provide some protection for the wearer and patient, they do not provide the same protection of a properly fitted N95 respirator.

It's important to note that surgical masks are very different from N95 respirators. Surgical masks are designed to provide fluid resistance and air filtration to the wearer. Surgical masks are usually rated by ASTM standards. ASTM levels are based on bacterial filtration efficiency, differential pressure, sub-micron particulate filtration efficiency, resistance to penetration by synthetic blood, and flammability. Most surgical masks will have an ASTM 1, ASTM 2, or ASTM 3 rating. While these provide some protection for the wearer and patient, they do not provide the same protection of a properly fitted N95 respirator.