One of the key instructions that health authorities have given to citizens regarding the coronavirus is to make sure that they do everything that they can to minimize its spread. Among the many things that we are supposed to take care of, one of the most important steps is to make sure that we always go out wearing masks. Apart from social distancing, whenever we need to deal with a situation involving social interaction, we need to make sure that we do not spread the virus to other people. The tool that helps us achieve that is a face mask. A lot of people are still curious about how face masks prevent the spread of the virus and we are sharing that information with you. Read on to find out all about how the spread of the coronavirus is minimized by using face masks.
They Stop Direct Spreading
One of the biggest sources of spreading the virus is face to face. People who have the virus and are near other people can spread the virus through coughing, sneezing, and even talking. With such high possibility of exposure, it is only logical to wear a mask. When you are wearing a mask on your face you are being protected and protecting others. As a carrier of the virus, you will not be able to spread it to other people if you cough or sneeze. The virus particles will be contained by the mask and prevent the passing of the infection.
At the same time, if you are in the presence of someone who may have the virus, wearing a mask would make sure you do not absorb any particles through your mouth or nose. Since the virus affects the respiratory system, these are the two things that need to be covered properly which you can do with a face protection mask.
The Data Supports It
Given the surprisingly huge number of people who believe that wearing face masks could make breathing difficult, scientists have performed multiple real-life tests to check the efficacy of wearing face masks. In addition to that, previous studies were also consulted to check the effects that masks have when used in situations involving respiratory viruses. One study conducted in 2013 checked the impact of wearing a face mask against the spread of the influenza virus. The results showed that in cases where people wore masks, there was a threefold reduction in the amount of virus particles that were being spread into the atmosphere by the infected person.
The studies conducted after that and during the current pandemic have also shown similar results, even better in some cases. Statistical data also shows that places where wearing masks during sickness is a norm (like in Japan) have much lower rates of disease spread. It is quite clear that masks certainly make a big difference in stopping the spread of the virus among communities.
Final Words
One thing to keep in mind during this time is that while wearing a mask is certainly playing a big role in stopping the spread of the virus, it is certainly not the only thing that you need to do. Guidelines provided by CDC and other health authorities clearly state that we need to practice other things as well, primarily social distancing. Avoid being with other people as much as you can and even when you do, maintain a safe distance of two meters. In addition to that, wash your hands repeatedly with soap for at least 20 seconds, especially when you have been in contact with a surface that is commonly used by other people as well. All these things, when combined and followed strictly can lead to a big dent in the spread of the coronavirus.
