Health messages are key in the fight against the coronavirus (COVID-19).
One of the key tools we have to halt the virus is health messages. It is also important to reinforce messages with tools and resources.
Businesses and government play a key role. They are also stakeholders.
We must keep up the fight.
Masks are key. And we have underscored this since the beginning. We collected our first data on masks in January, 2020. And in February, 2020, we began regularly conducting surveys. Most likely, we are the first to do so.
Here are the key mask messages. Please share them. This is key.
Masks Protect the Person Wearing the Mask
They help protect us from the virus. This is key.
Masks Protect Others, too
It also will protect others, too. It can be days before symptoms appear. Yet, you could still spread it. Also, some people carry the virus but never experience symptoms themselves.
Masks Send a Key Health Message
A mask is a health message. Wearing one telegraphs an important health message.
A mask reminds the person wearing it that the virus is serious. It also reminds others of the same message, too. Please set a positive example for others. Wear a mask.
Please wear a mask. And encourage others, too.
A Face Shield Alone is not enough
A face shield alone will not stop COVID-19. Here is why.
We first published this story on September 2. It is worth repeating:
A simple study shows the limits of a plastic face shield. And that they will not protect us from the virus. It was done at the Florida Atlantic University shows that a face shield alone will not protect the person wearing the shield. Also, they will not protect others.
However, wearing a face mask with the face shield does work.
Face shields alone do not protect us. But they do provide advantages. Experts point out that a face shield will protect the eyes and discourage touching of the face.
There are several key steps to take to reduce the spread of the virus. They are social distancing, wearing a mask, hand washing and to avoid touching of the face.