Delhi's Air Is A Health Emergency
This November, Delhi's air quality has frequently entered the 'Very Poor' and 'Severe' categories, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) regularly surpassing 300 and even 400 in some areas. As of November 12, 2026, the city's AQI was recorded at 313, a level
categorised as 'Very Poor'. These numbers aren't just statistics; they represent a significant health threat. An AQI in this range can lead to respiratory illness on prolonged exposure for everyone, not just vulnerable populations. Doctors are reporting a rise in patients, including young and otherwise healthy individuals, complaining of throat irritation, persistent coughs, and breathing difficulties. The primary culprit is PM2.5, microscopic particulate matter that can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, causing both short-term discomfort and long-term damage.
Why Your Cloth Mask Isn't Enough
During periods of severe air pollution, the cloth or standard surgical mask you might be used to is not sufficient. While they can block larger dust particles and droplets, they are not designed to filter out the hazardous PM2.5 particles that define Delhi's winter smog. Surgical masks are primarily intended to prevent the wearer from spreading germs, not to protect them from inhaling tiny airborne pollutants. For effective protection against PM2.5, you need a respirator mask specifically designed for the job, like an N95.
The N95: Your Best Line of Defence
The 'N95' designation means the mask is certified to filter at least 95% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. This makes it highly effective against the PM2.5 pollutants plaguing the city. However, its effectiveness is almost entirely dependent on one critical factor: the fit. If the mask does not form a complete seal against your face, polluted air will simply leak in around the edges, bypassing the filter and rendering the mask useless. Studies have shown that an improper fit can reduce a mask's filtering efficiency by up to 60%.
How to Ensure a Proper N95 Fit
Putting on an N95 respirator correctly takes a moment longer but is essential for your safety. Start by washing your hands. Hold the mask in your palm with the nosepiece at your fingertips. Place it over your nose and mouth, ensuring the bottom is securely under your chin. Pull the top strap over your head, positioning it high on the back of your head. Then, pull the bottom strap over, placing it around your neck, below your ears. Crucially, use the fingertips of both hands to mould the metal nosepiece to the bridge of your nose for a snug fit. Do not pinch it with one hand, as this can create gaps.
The All-Important Seal Check
Once the mask is on, you must perform a seal check every time. Place both hands over the respirator, covering as much of it as possible without disturbing its position, and exhale sharply. You should not feel any air leaking from the edges. If you do, or if your glasses fog up, the seal is not complete. Try adjusting the straps and the nosepiece. If air still escapes, you may need a different size or style of mask. When you breathe in sharply, the mask should slightly collapse inward, indicating a negative pressure and a good seal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Several common errors can compromise your protection. The most significant is wearing a mask with facial hair; even light stubble can prevent a proper seal. Other mistakes include wearing only one strap, crisscrossing the straps, or leaving your nose uncovered. A mask should always cover both your nose and mouth completely. Furthermore, disposable N95 masks should not be reused indefinitely. They should be replaced when they become dirty, damaged, or the straps lose their elasticity, as this compromises the fit.
