Wearing masks is key to halt the coronavirus (COVID-19). We began tracking it in January 2020.
Early in the pandemic, mask-wearing was not considered essential. But we believed it was. So we kept collecting data. Our surveys record statistics on:
- Individuals wearing protective masks
- Individuals without masks
- Wearing correctly (over the nose and mouth)
- Mask material/source
We conducted surveys at the same public locations. And we will continue well into 2021.
And it may be an indicator for practicing other safeguards, too. But we have not yet studied this.
This data are important. It shows where resources are needed. It also shows how messages are spread. And also how they are interpreted.
The recent decline underscores the importance of support. It is a cornerstone of what we do.
Here are the key mask messages to halt the coronavirus (COVID-19). Please share them.
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. But they have some benefits.
A 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.
Photograph by Christina Morillo