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.
Here are the key mask messages to halt the coronavirus (COVID-19). Please share them. This is key.
We began collecting data on masks in January, 2020. This included reporting from Northern Europe and Vietnam. Beginning in February, 2020, we began regularly collecting data in the United States. Most likely, we are the first to do so.
Wearing a mask is essential to halt the virus. It is one of the key steps we can all take. Here is why.
Masks Telegraph 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.
Masks Protect the Person Wearing the Mask
Masks help protect us from the virus. This is key.
Masks Protect Others, too
Masks also protect others if we have the virus. It can be days before symptoms appear. Yet, you could still spread it. Also, some people carry the virus but never experience symptoms themselves.
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. The study 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.
Please set a positive example for others. Wear a mask.
Photograph by August de Richelieu