Wearing masks as part of a “layered strategy” under certain circumstances is now being recommended.
Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that even the vaccinated should wear them some of the time. This is part of a “layered” short-term strategy to prevent the spread.
However, the CDC gives the ultimate decision to those on the ground. They note this is the criteria to consider in this strategy:
- Level of new cases
- Treatment capacity
- Vaccination rate
- Testing systems
For many, masks are still key. And this is a reminder.
New cases have declined rapidly thanks to vaccinations. But children are not yet eligible for the vaccine. And in some settings, masks are still necessary. And there are other reasons, too.
Here are the key mask messages to halt COVID-19:
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.
For many, masks still are key. And this is a reminder.