With the benefit of vaccinations and other interventions some ask, are masks still necessary?
The simple answer is “yes”. Masks remain an important tool in fighting the pandemic. In fact, the CDC has recognized masks as an important strategy to combat the pandemic. Thus, let us look at some examples.
First, some individuals cannot be vaccinated. Therefore, they and those that are in close contact with them, need to consider wearing a mask in public and when around others.
In other circumstances, individuals may be immunocompromised. And therefore, it is necessary for them and those in close contact with them to wear a mask.
Additionally, some work professionally or live with vulnerable populations. And therefore, it is necessary that they, as an extra precaution, wear a mask at certain times.
Most recently, the Omicron BA.5 sub-variant has been spreading rapidly in the United States. And it is being reported that even those that are fully vaccinated or have recovered from an earlier infection of the virus, are being infected with BA.5. However, reporting shows that vaccinations reduce the impact of the virus.
Thus, wearing a mask should be considered as part of a “layered strategy” to protect from the virus.
In fact, the BA.5 sub-variant appears to spread easier than previousCovid-19 strains. And today, it appears that it is responsible for at least 65% of new infections in the United States.
Last, anyone that suspects that they are infected or has recently tested positive for the virus, should wear a mask when around others. And they should follow this step even if they are interacting with individuals that are fully vaccinated.
Beginning in December 2019, we began advocating for mask wearing as a key strategy to prevent the spread of the virus. And we continue supporting this today. More, here are the key health messages to support and encourage mask wearing:
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. In some settings such as schools, masks remain key.
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 the virus. 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. But they have some benefits. Instead, you need to wear a face mask. Masks are key to halting the virus.
A study 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.
Today, COVID-19 is a vaccine-preventable disease. Vaccines are safe. And they are effective. More, even though there are reported “breakthrough cases” (including the BA.5 variant), they substantially reduce symptoms.