according to the contest’s website. FILE - Generic mask stock image. RELATED: ‘This is deadly serious’: Biden calls for states to reinstate mask mandate amid uptick in COVID-19 casesIn addition to creating a next-generation mask that will help prevent the spread of any respiratory diseases, the challenge will address other issues that have plagued masks since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, including "contact dermatitis with prolonged wear, physical discomfort, fogging of eyeglasses, and difficulty communicating."AdvertisementThe challenge will run six months and will be divided into two phases, with a possible third phase, according to the website."All respondents are eligible for Phase 1.