UAB Medicine News


Are facial coverings other than traditional masks (gaiters, bandanas, etc.) effective?

Wearing a face covering helps prevent the spread of infectious respiratory droplets from one person to another. Cloth masks reduce the spread of droplets when the mask completely covers the nose and mouth. Alternative face coverings to cloth masks, like neck gaiters and bandanas, can help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets if worn correctly. People should avoid masks with exhalation valves on the front, as this releases unfiltered air, including respiratory droplets.

Answered by Dr. Molly Fleece, MD.