Lately, much chatter in the media, as well as talk heard ’round my neighborhood, leads to one simple question. Do masks prevent the spread of Coronavirus? The answer is yes. A recent study shows wearing masks could reduce the incidence of Coronavirus by 80% or more. Are masks perfect? No. Do they work really well? Yes.
Do Masks Prevent The Spread Of Coronavirus?
Recently Dr. Deborah Birx, the White House Coronavirus response coordinator, emphasized there is “clear scientific evidence” that masks work. On top of that, the Annals of Internal Medicine just published a landmark analysis of 64 studies finding that masks prevent the spread of Coronaviruses and other airborne illnesses.
Half Of Americans Stay Home Due To Coronavirus
The US is plowing ahead with opening businesses to restart the economy. Unfortunately, more than half of Americans don’t yet want to leave their homes to patronize these businesses. One simple way to address this problem is to commit as a country to wearing masks.
Is Coronavirus Spread Through The Air?
Furthering mask initiatives around the US, an esteemed panel of experts from the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) stated that because Coronavirus is aerosolized and lingers in the air, masks are a good option for preventing its spread. In their formal letter, the NAS panel let the current administration know that Coronavirus is transmitted not only through sneezing and coughing, but also by speaking and breathing. In effect, the Coronavirus is an airborne disease. This is why masks work, they prevent the virus from being emitted, or sprayed (heavily via sneezing, or lightly by breathing) from infected persons to others. Masks prevent the virus from spreading into and pooling in the air. For this same reason, it’s safer to be outdoors than inside, because in this scenario the virus is dispersed, rather than concentrated. Still, masks are needed both inside and outside to protect our population from infected individuals, prevent its spread, and open up our economy quickly.
Think Of Coronavirus As Glitter
It may help to think of Coronavirus as glitter. A mask is going to stop those who may have COVID-19 from efficiently spreading corona-glitter to others. In a recent article in the Washington Post, Joseph Allen from the School of Public Health at Harvard emphasizes that masks prevent the spread of Coronavirus very effectively. Getting this information out so that more people comply with wearing masks will unite our country around a cheap yet effective initiative that erases the false dichotomy between health and economics because it addresses both with fairly little effort.
What Types of Masks Are Protective Against Coronavirus?
Dr. Harvey Fineberg, head of the NAS committee that sent the letter on the effectiveness of mask use to the current administration, said he would wear a mask to the grocery store, and that among other options, items ranging from a bandana to a balaclava would work well in preventing the spread of Coronavirus. Handpicked by the current administration, Dr. Fineberg leads the NAS Standing Committee Requested by White House in Response to Coronavirus.
Masks Save Lives
I interviewed Dr. Todd Dorfman, Director of EMS for Boulder County Colorado about the use of masks to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. He states, “Face masks combined with other preventive measures, such as social distancing, help slow the spread of the disease,” adding, “Asking everyone to wear cloth masks can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 by people who have the disease but don’t realize it. Countries that required face masks early in the pandemic seem to have had the best success slowing the disease’s spread.” He pointed out that these countries also used testing far earlier and more frequently than the US at the outset of the pandemic in January.
To Mask Or Unmask
Unfortunately, asking our citizens to do the right thing when it comes to Coronavirus may not be that simple because mask use is now a very heated topic. Here in Colorado, a man walked into a restaurant in Aurora, just outside Denver. He was told he needed to wear a mask to be served. In response, he shot a restaurant employee. Thankfully, we can all agree that this extreme overreaction is not even close to an appropriate response under any circumstances.
Japan Used Masks To Prevent Spread of Coronavirus
On the other hand, an article in Forbes called New Study Shows That This One Thing Could Cause 80% Decrease in COVID-19 Cases, points out that while the US is slowly trying to reopen, Japan didn’t ever really close.
The Land of the Rising Sun has had no lockdown, no stopped subways and most businesses have remained open.
As of this writing, the US has suffered over 100,000 Coronavirus deaths, yet Japan has endured less than 1,000. While Japan’s population is around one-third of ours, they’ve suffered 1% of the deaths incurred here in the US. Why? One reason is that the Japanese have willingly used masks while waiting for a cure.
How To Use A Mask Properly To Prevent Coronavirus Spread
Dr. Dorfman pointed out that The Mayo Clinic has a simple, reasonable set of instructions for putting on and taking off a cloth mask:
- Place your mask over your mouth and nose
- Tie it behind your head or use ear loops and make sure it’s snug
- Don’t touch your mask while wearing it
- If you accidentally touch your mask, wash or sanitize your hands
- Remove the mask by untying it or lifting off the ear loops without touching the front of the mask or your face
- Wash your hands immediately after removing your mask
- Regularly wash your mask with soap and water in the washing machine, it’s fine to launder with other clothes
President Trump’s Surgeon General Recommends Wearing A Mask
It’s true, when there was a shortage, the Surgeon General, Dr. Jerome Robins, advised against the use of masks. This was when we were in the initial stages of Coronavirus, unprepared, and perilously short on personal protective equipment (PPE). However, he now not only recommends mask-wearing but has a video demonstrating how to make one.
Why Didn’t Vice President Pence Wear A Mask At The Mayo Clinic
Prior to his visit, the Mayo Clinic briefed the Vice President’s team on their mandatory mask-wearing policy. Unfortunately, he did not comply. During this tragic time with so many lives lost, and little to no way to properly grieve them, it is more important than ever to show patriotism by protecting our medical warriors in any way we can. More people have died in the last 2 months than in the Korean and Vietnam wars combined. We can easily protect our front line heroes at places like the Mayo Clinic with little to no sacrifice. Why not wear a mask in public? Especially when you cannot social distance.
Why Doesn’t President Trump Wear A Mask?
Perhaps this administration thinks it would be a show of weakness to don masks everywhere. However, it’s not too late to lead by example. It would demonstrate inspiring strength and bravery for our highest public officials to wear masks in public.
Will You Wear A Mask To Prevent The Spread Of Coronavirus?
Do masks stop the spread of Coronavirus completely? No. Are they perfect? No. But let’s not allow perfect to be the enemy of the good. Masks save lives. The important thing is that we don’t let nuances deter us from the most important public causes when it comes to health. Will you wear a mask?
Kim says
Yes, my husband and I wear a mask in public spaces. My parents are in their 80’s and I will do whatever I can to not spread the virus to those in high risk categories. My 26 year old son also wears a mask when out in public.
Thanks for another educational article!
Elana says
You’re welcome Kim.
EsJayKay says
My sister and her husband were shunned (by people they know) for wearing masks. Even though some of these people knew that her husband has a compromised immune system. If it’s personal choice, or medically advised, why would people do that? It’s unnecessary for people to be so rude. Just MHO.
Elana says
Es, I wouldn’t ever want to police anyone, but I do enjoy a good discussion with all point of view!
Luck Kaye says
I have been wearing a mask when I go outside my home since March –
Just as a note, those who cannot mask are often wearing a message to that effect. It helps so that people who just don’t want the bother don’t get a free pass.
Elana says
Thanks Luck.
Bobbie says
Absolutely! Both my husband and I wear masks. As do our friends.
I have often been amazed at how, other wise, very intelligent people seem to displaying
a lack of common sense.
My heart breaks for the families that have lost loved ones to this virus, often without having the opportunity to be with them as they lay dying. And my heart breaks for the caregivers who put themselves (and then their families) at risk.
To me, as bad as contracting the disease would be, it would be unbearable to think I may have
exposed others.
Recently, I went for a walk in our very quiet neighborhood where walkers give each other a wide birth, a smile and wave. One day, as a car passed with the window down, I thought nothing if it when I noticed the passenger window down. A few steps later I inhaled a cloud of smoke. I tried to exhale and spit it out( but one actually needs to inhale to do that). Clearly this smoke was exhaled into the air. Did she have the virus? Who knows!
On the next walk, I noticed a group of lawn care people taking their break.
One sat in his truck with the door open. I could see the smoke crossing into the air as I approached. This time I was prepared and pulled a mask over my nose and mouth.
These are friendly nice folks. I am not angry the man smoked, but in today’s situation
It is “ my” responsibility to take care of myself!
So, it’s a free country! You can wear a mask, or not. Can you live with the consequences.
Is it really too much to ask for yourself, your loved ones and you fellow man?
Elana says
Thanks Bobbie.
Kathy Barrick says
I am very disappointed that you had to bring up politics, I too thought better of you.
I will wear a mask because I was asked to even I am not convinced that they are effective however. Watch people in the grocery store….the amount of people touching their face, readjusting their mask is numerous. Watching elderly people trying to comply with their glasses fogging up is an accident waiting to happen. And news reports of people shaming others because they don’t have a mask on is awful. Some people can’t wear a mask for medical reasons, should they have to hang a sign around their neck with their disease so they don’t get shamed or so that they can be allowed in a store?
Elana says
Kathy, thanks so much for your comment, appreciate your sharing your perspective, because I need to hear every point of view. I totally agree, it isn’t ever ok to shame others for anything, and absolutely, people who have a medical reason should not wear a mask. Take good care!
Linda says
Very well said! Our family is wearing masks!
Elana says
Thanks Linda.
DamselflyDiary says
Absolutely I am wearing a mask! In fact I have made almost 200 so far for donation and friends and family. Plus I am 99% staying home except for essential trips like today’s to take our cat to the vet (we just found out she has terminal cancer.)
If I lost a friend or relative (or had to be hospitalized myself) I would never forgive myself if I hadn’t been wearing a mask. It is such a simple thing to do to mitigate this big risky virus.
I am willing to be a little uncomfortable and inconvenienced to protect myself and others.
Elana says
Damselfly, you go on having your own personal mask making factory. And so sorry to hear about your cat. Hugs to you in Denver.
Lianne Franco says
Hi Elana,
I have been a follower of your newsletter for a few years now and really enjoy your creative and delicious keto recipes – thank you!
Over the past while your letters centre more around social and personal issues. In this vain, I thought it might assist to offer expanded information specifically regarding masks and their efficacy. Dr Zac Bush is a very brilliant US triple-board certified Physician, a doctor of Internal Medicine, Endocrinologist and Palliative Care who cares deeply about only one thing – truly healing his patients. In this very informative and enlightening interview https://nextadvancedmedicine.com/2020/05/14/watch-this-inspiring-and-fascinating-interview-on-coronavirus-with-dr-zach-bush-m-d/ he talks extensively about coronavirus, it’s possible origins and how to best handle it. It is always well worth reading a broad range of information before finally concluding, and I hope this interview moves you the way it moved me. And during these endless days at home, keep the recipes flowing!
Elana says
Lianne, first thanks for sharing such interesting information in such a thoughtful and kind way. We lost loved ones who were not on ACE2 inhibitors, and unfortunately, in contrast to what Dr. Bush says, there are numerous children suffering from COVID-19, as well as dying from it, this is not just an epidemic of the elderly. While I whole heartedly agree with not buying a new car that off gasses (I drive one from 1996 for this very reason), there is some research that contrasts his statements regarding ARBs showing that they may reduce COVID progression. All in all, I don’t think wearing a seat belt when I drive a car means I let the fear of death rule my life, nor do I think wearing a mask indicates this either. Thanks for chatting and for thought provoking material!
Maria says
I’m unsurprised by some of the comments but I’m unsurprised by much these days.
I THANK YOU for voicing your opinion. Stay sensible. Stay safe.
Elana says
Maria, please stay safe.
Maria says
Thank you! We’ll be wearing our masks, not expecting people with medical conditions that stops them from wearing one to do so, and we won’t be harassing or expecting retail/office/essentially anyone doing their job to have to ask me to do what I as an informed human knows is decent and correct.
The privilege and ableism is strong with some these people.
I’m going back to baking and being kind to my neighbors.
Elana says
Maria, totally agree, no one should ever wear a mask who has a medical condition, masks are to prevent people from getting sick.
Carol says
None of the studies you mention are studying healthy people wearing masks, only healthcare workers. There is zero scientific evidence that healthy people should wear masks. In fact wearing masks is actually bad for your health. Masks can cause hypoxia (reduced oxygen) and the moist environment of the mask breeds germs. Russel Blalock, MD has a good article about this. I recommend you and your readers look at the website questioningCovid.com for many other respected doctors and scientists that are questioning the official narrative around this particular virus. I’ve been in healthcare many years and to see the reaction to this virus compared to all the previous ones is dumbfounding to say the least. If you look at the profound influence one man (a college dropout with zero medical training) has had on the World Health Organization, and all the other public entities through his philanthropic donations, it’s important to look at what his agenda might be. Go to CorbettReport.com to check out his 4 part documentary on Bill Gates. I’m curious what your stance would be after you do just this little bit of research.
Elana says
Thanks Carol, I went to Blalock’s site and saw it began with the words “so called COVID-19 pandemic” given that we have personally lost perfectly healthy loved ones to this Coronavirus I cannot say that I agree with that position. Also have a bunch of folks on the the medical front lines in NYC who deal with this daily. Do you believe that over 100,000 people have not died in the last weeks from COVID-19? Not being sarcastic, just trying to get a hold on another perspective and always wanting to learn more. Thanks in advance!
Carol says
Elana, thank you for posting all the dissenting replies and for even looking at the links. I’m pretty sure though that you haven’t truly perused the two that I sent (understandable given you’re doing this all by yourself). But please when you have time go to questioningCovid.com. You have said several times that you interviewed many doctors before giving your advice so I’m sure you’d be interested in the many doctors on this website that disagree strongly with the conventional narrative. And to truly understand the propaganda that we’re bombarded with (meant to keep us fearful and not thinking rationally) please see CorbettReport.com. He’s been researching propaganda since 2007 and has extensive references to back up everything he says. His latest articles on Bill Gates are eye opening.
Elana says
Thanks Carol, after spending hours going through these types of links where people recommend things like taking hydroxycloroquine prophylactically instead of wearing masks, it may be time for me to take a little breather. I wish you the very best!
Alison says
You are correct Carol, wearing a mask is extremely hazardous to ones health. I work at a grocery store and am required to wear a mask for 8 hours per day. It’s like wearing a germ factory on your face and slaughtering your mucous membranes so that they can’t fight the germs. Blaylock is a very well respected and his research is documented at the end of his article.
Elana says
Thanks Alison.