How KN95 masks help to combat the omicron variant
St. Joe’s has implemented new safety measures in order for our community to keep up with the changing nature of covid-19. The university is requiring KN95 masks for community members and double masking for those who cannot use KN95 masks. Eating and drinking is also prohibited in classes until at least Jan. 31, with the possibility of an extension.
We acknowledge that the constant changes since March 2020 can be frustrating for some. Living in these uncertain times can feel unsettling, but we must continue to adjust in spite of it.
Even though it feels tiresome, the safety and protection of those in our community is of the utmost importance. If wearing a specific mask allows us to keep ourselves and our community safe, we must take the necessary precautions.
KN95 masks are better suited to protect us from covid. They are more secure and offer better protection against particles from traveling into one’s face or mouth in comparison to cloth or cheaper reusable masks. In fact, if worn correctly, KN95 masks only allow 5% of air particles to pass through.
Since covid is airborne, highly transmissible and even more contagious due to the omicron variant, it is important now more than ever that we protect ourselves and others as best as we can.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that the omicron variant
made up over half of the cases in January in the U.S. alone. They believe that anyone with omicron can spread the virus, even if they are asymptomatic and fully vaccinated.
According to virologist Tom Peacock, omicron “replicates … even faster than Delta.” This is why it is important to wear well-fitted masks over both the mouth and the nose. The chances of recontracting omicron is five times that of the other variants. While it appears that both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals are able to contract covid, the severity of the infection highly differs.
According to researchers in Britain, by receiving a booster, individuals can decrease their chances of hospitalization by 81% as opposed to being unvaccinated. There is a 65% reduction in hospitalization due to omicron for those who’ve received the initial dose. In an effort to protect our St. Joe’s community
and to prevent the spread of covid, we urge everyone to get vaccinated and to get a booster shot in addition to masking properly.
St. Joe’s is offering a booster clinic from Dake’s Drug Store on Feb.1 from 10 a.m. to 1p.m. in the Perch on a first come, first serve basis. St. Joe’s is also providing community members with free KN95 masks that can be picked up at Campion Student Center 229, the library circulation desk, the Writing
Center, all of the advising centers, all of the Dean’s offices and the commuter lounge.
While things are constantly changing, we must keep in mind that the best thing we can do is to get vaccinated, wear proper masks and avoid large gatherings. As an institution with and for others, we need to do everything that we can in order to protect ourselves and our community.