Masks remain a vital tool in the fight against Covid. But we are concerned that their availability is waning.
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 have preexisting conditions. 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 masks are part of a layered strategy to protect them.
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.
In November, 2022, we conducted a survey of drugstores, supermarkets and other retail stores to determine the availability of masks. And we were discouraged. In fact, we are concerned that retailers are treating masks like other products. Thus, with waning demand, are reducing their inventory or not carrying any inventory at all.
At one large store, we found masks only for children. In other stores, we found masks that were unrated. In fact, we found this with nearly all masks being retailed today.
However, Walgreens the drugstore carried a very large assortment of masks and styles.
Beginning in December 2019, we began advocating for masks 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 this:
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”, they substantially reduce symptoms. But masks remain a vital tool, also.