Masking Makes a Comeback: Why the US Is Facing Another COVID Wave

Facing Another COVID Wave: Masking Returns to the Spotlight

As California grapples with a late-summer COVID wave—spurred by rising cases, hospitalizations, and high viral levels in wastewater—public health officials are renewing calls for masking indoors. This renewed emphasis on face coverings comes amid growing concern over transmission rates and shifting federal vaccine policies.

But California isn’t alone in this. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that coronavirus infections are growing or likely growing in 30 states, with 21 states seeing high or very high viral levels in wastewater. The West leads the nation in overall viral activity, especially in metro regions.

Texas is seeing another significant rise due to the XFG or "Stratus" variant—cases are spiking in cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas–Fort Worth. Wastewater data shows viral activity has climbed to "very high" levels.

Meanwhile, states including Hawaii as well as West Coast leaders like Oregon and Washington have joined California in forming the West Coast Health Alliance—a coalition to develop independent, science-driven vaccine guidance amid concerns about federal policy shifts.

Nationally, data confirms that COVID infections are still rising across much of the country. Although some regions report a more moderate increase, the South and West continue to bear the brunt of this resurgence.

Who Should Mask and Why

Given these trends, returning to masking—especially with higher-grade masks—makes sense, particularly in the following scenarios:

• Children, Back-to-School Students & Teachers – Classrooms are enclosed spaces where viruses spread easily. KF94 masks offer high filtration to keep both students and educators safer during lessons, assemblies, and extracurricular activities.
• Laboratory Technicians – Labs often involve exposure to airborne particles, chemicals, or biological materials. A snug-fitting KF94 helps protect against inhaling contaminants during research and experiments.
• Janitorial Staff – Cleaning work stirs up dust, mold spores, and chemical fumes. KF94 masks provide both respiratory protection and all-day comfort for physically active tasks.
• Nurses & Healthcare Workers – In hospitals, clinics, and care homes, frequent patient interaction increases infection risk. KF94 masks act as a barrier against airborne viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens.
• Bakery & Food Prep Staff – Working with flour, powdered sugar, and other fine ingredients can cause respiratory irritation. KF94 masks help prevent inhalation while maintaining food safety standards.
• Cafeteria Workers – Serving large groups means constant exposure to people and food-handling environments. Masks protect both the wearer and the customers from potential cross-contamination.
• Spa & Salon Staff – Close personal services like facials, hair treatments, or massages can’t avoid proximity. KF94 masks allow staff to work comfortably while minimizing the risk of airborne illness.
• Construction & Dust-Exposure Jobs – From sanding drywall to cutting tile, construction work creates fine dust and debris that can damage lungs. KF94 masks filter out harmful particulates while staying breathable.

A Final Note

With another COVID wave sweeping across California, Texas, and much of the West—and infection trends rising in many other states—it’s clear: masking isn’t just back in the conversation—it’s a smart preventive step.

That’s where KF94 masks shine. Known for their 94% filtration efficiency, 4-layer protection, and ergonomic 3D design, they fit snugly to minimize air leakage while staying breathable for extended wear. Unlike loose cloth masks or simple surgical masks, KF94s provide both comfort and high-level protection, making them an excellent choice for classrooms, hospitals, workplaces, and everyday activities.

And the timing couldn’t be better: At Be Healthy, we are currently holding a Free Mask Event. This initiative gives individuals and organizations access to free KF94 masks (just cover shipping, or pick up in person from our warehouse at no cost). It’s an effort to reduce waste, promote sustainability, and make sure communities have reliable protection exactly when they need it most.

For anyone concerned about staying safe during this surge, it’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on masks that work—and to do so without financial barriers.

Stay safe and Be Healthy