“Omicron is an incredibly infectious agent, possibly the most contagious pathogen on the planet,” said Lawrence Gostin, a Georgetown University professor of global health law and director of the World Health Organization Center on Global Health Law.

“A fabric mask does almost nothing at this point.”

“It was only around 20% to 30% effective against Delta, if that. And, without a doubt, it is ineffective with Omicron.”

Professor Gostin stated that individuals should immediately abandon their fabric masks in favour of a more effective face covering.”

“They are virtually ineffective against this type of aerosolized virus carried by the air. Even surgical masks are not always as effective as they could be.”

“Omicron is an incredibly infectious agent, possibly the most contagious pathogen on the planet,” said Lawrence Gostin, a Georgetown University professor of global health law and director of the World Health Organization Center on Global Health Law. “A fabric mask does almost nothing at this point.” “It was only around 20% to 30% effective against Delta, if that. And, without a doubt, it is ineffective with Omicron.” Professor Gostin stated that individuals should immediately abandon their fabric masks in favour of a more effective face covering. ” “[They are] virtually ineffective against this type of aerosolized disease carried by the air. Even surgical masks are not always as effective as they could be.”Getty

Currently, the best mask available in Australia is the N95 mask, also known as the P2 mask.

When properly worn, they are capable of filtering out extremely small particles from the air. These masks must be fitted according to the manufacturer’s directions and form a tight seal around the face in order to be effective.

However, persons with beards are advised to shave prior to using a P2 mask, as a proper seal between the mask and the wearer’s face cannot be ensured when facial hair is present.

However, as previously said, with the hoarding of hand sanitiser and toilet paper, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to obtain some N95 masks.

Here is a list of locations in Australia where you may get N95 masks:

Unvalved Respirator Pk20, Badger Australia, $46.75, Medcart p2
Box of ten N95 respirators and surgical face masks, $27.45 Medical Supplies That Are Critical vitalmedicalsupplies
P2 4-layer face mask with earloops, produced in Australia, 25 pack, $59.95, PPETECH ppe
ProChoice P2 rated valved respirators 12 pack, $25, Medcart ProChoice P2 rated valved respirators 12 pack $25
10 pack of Softmed N95 face masks, $19.95, Chemist Warehouse