The Scientific Proof that DIsposable Face Masks Work to Prevent Disease Transmission
While scientists across the globe have reached a consensus regarding the effectiveness of masks at slowing the spread of the novel coronavirus, many consumers in America are still fighting against mask mandates and recommendations. Much of this opposition comes from ignorance. Those who don’t have backgrounds in science or medicine may not know how masks prevent disease transmission, but they can read on to educate themselves about the scientific evidence proving that masks work. Laboratory Studies Laboratory studies on the ability of face masks to block the transmission of the coronavirus and other respiratory diseases through droplets have shown that they are very effective. One recent laboratory experiment showed that even a damp washcloth over the mouth can stop the transmission of 20 to 500-micrometer droplets, while another older study showed that common surgical masks can significantly reduce the number of respiratory viruses such as influenza and common colds transmitted ...