Are Neck Gaiters Effective in Stopping the Spread of COVID-19?

Though the U.S. has administered at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to 70 percent of American adults, there is still a threat of contracting the Delta variant as it continues to spread across the country. In an effort to lower the risk of infections, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends wearing face masks indoors—particularly in areas with high transmission rates.

With mask-wearing becoming mandatory again, many people are looking for new ways to stay protected whenever they need to go out in public. One type of face-covering people are considering is a neck gaiter. Traditionally, this tube of fabric is worn around the neck for warmth, but more recently, it is being used as protection against the COVID-19 infection. It also provides a comfortable and stylish option with various designs available. At times, individuals who want to stand out would have custom neck gaiters made. It is also a creative way to stay recognizable even if half of the face is covered.

But the question about the efficacy of neck gaiters against the spread of the COVID-19 virus remains. To explore if neck gaiters are the right kind of protection for you, read on.

Neck Gaiters Can Block Up to 60 Percent of Aerosol Particles

The CDC considers neck gaiters as an acceptable type of face covering, as long as they have at least two layers or are folded into two layers. In a recent study[1] by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), they used a device to simulate coughs to propel small aerosol particles through different face coverings including neck gaiters. They then placed these coverings on a mannequin head to test their efficacy. Their research concluded that while a three-ply cotton facemask blocked 51 percent of aerosol particles, a single layer of polyester neck gaiter blocked 47 percent of aerosol particles. But when the neck gaiter was folded to make a double layer, it was able to block 60 percent of aerosol particles.

Take note that researchers only tested how well the face coverings could stop cough aerosols from being expelled into the air and not as personal protective equipment that prevented aerosols from being inhaled by the wearer. The CDC and NIOSH have yet to test various gaiter materials and their effectiveness.

Any Face Covering Is Better than None

The study by the NIOSH concludes that neck gaiters offer significant protection and the CDC supports this. The CDC also specified in their guidelines that having some form of face-covering is better than nothing at all.

When it comes to the efficacy of different face masks available in the market today, the N95 is still the most effective as it can block 99 percent of small aerosol particles. However, such face masks are in critical supply and are prioritized for the use of healthcare workers and other medical first responders who have a higher risk of getting exposed to the virus. In the meantime, the public can choose among the other available protective face coverings including reusable cotton face masks and neck gaiters.

Neck Gaiters Can Be Used for Outdoor Settings

While there are some experts that don’t recommend using neck gaiters with the prevalent threat of the Delta variant, such face coverings can offer people protection from infection when outside in a crowded area. Neck gaiters are also suitable for individuals who have a lot of facial hair, making it difficult for a face mask to fit properly and comfortably. They can use gaiters to replace face masks or wear them on top of their CDC-approved masks to stay protected.

Since neck gaiters are originally designed to protect the wearer against harsh weather, they offer additional benefits when worn in warmer and colder months. Neck gaiters can be beneficial for people who like to spend a lot of time outdoors in the heat due to their cooling properties. On the other hand, other gaiters are constructed from materials that can add warmth during winter.

What to Look for in Neck Gaiters

If you choose to wear a neck gaiter in lieu of a face mask, look for one with two or three layers or can be folded into several layers. The best way to determine its quality is if you hold it up to a light source and you don’t see light through the covering. But if light seeps through the fabric, it won’t offer proper protection. So, make sure to select a material that does not have large spaces between the fiber that can let virus particles pass through.

Also, ensure that the neck gaiter of your choice covers your nose and fits snugly under your chin. This way, you won’t inhale any airborne particles. Additionally, practice good hand hygiene, especially when wearing or removing your face coverings. Wash your hands before putting on your neck gaiter and make sure to keep them clean when you are about to remove the gaiter from your face.

Even if you’ve already received the COVID-19 vaccine, you still need to wear proper face coverings to protect yourself against the delta variant. If you are looking for a stylish and comfortable option, a neck gaiter is a suitable alternative to face masks. When selecting neck gaiters, make sure it is made of several layers that can effectively block small aerosol particles. Apart from this, you can stay safe and healthy by avoiding crowded spaces and practicing social distancing.