N95, surgical or homemade: Which mask to wear to keep coronavirus at bay

Here's a look at some of the types of masks you might encounter, how they work, what to consider when making your own and the level of protection they could provide.

Face masks have become an emblem in the fight against the coronavirus, with officials in the United States and elsewhere recommending — and in some cases requiring — that people wear them to help slow the spread of the deadly outbreak.

Figuring out what to wear is not so easy. N95 and medical masks, which offer the most protection and are heavily in demand, should be reserved for health care workers who are regularly exposed to infected patients.

Here’s a look at some of the types of masks you might encounter, how they work, what to consider when making your