When it comes to masks to slow the spread of COVID-19, many options are available. How do you decide what mask is right for you? Dr. John O'Horo, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases specialist, provides a demonstration of various mask options available and how to properly wear them.

Watch: Dr. John O'Horo demonstrates wearing face masks.

Journalists: Broadcast-quality video is available in the downloads at the end of the post. Please courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network   Name super/CG: John O'Horo, M.D./Infectious Diseases/Mayo Clinic. Read script.

Wearing a mask serves two purposes, says Dr. O'Horo. They add a layer of protection to the person wearing the mask and help prevent onward transmission to others.

If you are using a surgical or procedural mask, it should be replaced daily or at any sign the mask’s integrity is compromised or when the mask is visibly soiled, contaminated, damaged or deemed unusable.

Along with masking, Dr. O'Horo advises everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated and boosted.

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For the safety of its patients, staff and visitors, Mayo Clinic has strict masking policies in place. Anyone shown without a mask was either recorded prior to COVID-19 or recorded in a nonpatient care area where social distancing and other safety protocols were followed.

Information in this post was accurate at the time of its posting. Due to the fluid nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, scientific understanding, along with guidelines and recommendations, may have changed since the original publication date. 

For more information and all your COVID-19 coverage, go to the Mayo Clinic News Network and mayoclinic.org.

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