Unfortunately, there are those who view the pandemic as an opportunity to make a quick buck by selling counterfeit respirators and other associated PPE. The most common respirator is an N95 mask. U.S. Customs has confiscated millions of counterfeit N95 masks, which pose a serious public health risk to Americans, and especially health care workers who rely on respirators every day for their safety.

Manufacturers of counterfeits often falsely claim that their masks are approved by the National Institute for Occupation Safety & Health (NIOSH), so it’s critical to double check for yourself. I urge anyone using a respirator to compare it with the CDC’s guidance on how to spot fakes. This simple action could help save lives!

For more information, click here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/usernotices/counterfeitResp.html