These masks are designed in large to help stop droplets from spreading from the person wearing the mask. They also protect the wearer"s mouth and nose from splashes. The CDC says that face masks and respirators are most useful for people who are in crowded settings, such as classrooms or airplanes, where they will protect the mouth and nose from germs and reduce the likelihood of coughing or sneezing on other people. Face masks and respirators are sometimes recommended for people who are in close contact with an infected person. "Close contact" is defined as three feet or less by the World Health Organization and six feet or less by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. *These masks provide some level of protection though these are not the N95 masks that filter small particles.