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 by both droplets and aerosols.

Real-World Studies

Laboratory tests provide a good basis for understanding the science behind mask-wearing, but real-world studies provide even stronger evidence. One study published in the journal Health Affairs compared COVID-19 growth rates before and after mask mandates were put into place. It found that mask mandates slow daily growth rates by 2 percentage points. That might not sound like much, but it makes a large difference in the context of highly contagious respiratory diseases like the coronavirus.

A second recent study showed that coronavirus deaths also went down when mask-wearing was commonplace. In countries where government policies and cultural norms favor consistent mask-wearing, death rates have been much lower since the beginning of the pandemic.

Case Reports

Although case reports are considered anecdotal evidence, they can still provide important information. Look at the case of one man who flew from China to Toronto. He got on the plane with a dry cough and subsequently tested positive for COVID-19 upon arrival at his destination. The man wore a mask, though, and the 25 people closest to him on the plane all tested negative for the virus.

A second case report concerning two Missouri hairstylists provides additional compelling evidence. The two hairstylists unknowingly went back to work in May with active coronavirus infections, but they wore masks the whole time they were working. None of the 140 clients with whom the two stylists had close contact tested positive for COVID-19.

The Bottom Line

All laboratory, epidemiological, and anecdotal evidence points to the same thing: masks work. Consumers should do their part by stocking up on Disposable Face Masks and wearing them whenever social distancing isn’t possible to protect themselves and those around them.