But does wearing a face mask really prevent the spread of viruses, such as the flu or SARS-CoV-2?
We’ll look at recommendations from experts, unpack the research on which masks are most effective, and explain how to use masks properly.
What do the experts say? In the case of the novel coronavirus and COVID-19, the CDCTrusted Source notes that:
“CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19.
When was the last time you were struck in the face by blood or other bodily fluids during surgery? Studies1 show such incidents occur to OR staff, on average, between 45% and 51% of the time, and that’s an excellent reason to be sure you’re wearing a face mask that provides the protection you need.
But with all the options available, knowing how to select the mask that will give you the right level of protection for the task at hand can be confusing.
Stay home except to get medical care Stay home: Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and are able to recover at home without medical care. Do not leave your home, except to get medical care. Do not visit public areas. Stay in touch with your doctor. Call before you get medical care. Be sure to get care if you have trouble breathing, or have any other emergency warning signs, or if you think it is an emergency.
Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases.
The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.*
Fever Cough Shortness of breath Symptoms of COVID-19 are non-specific and those infected may either be asymptomatic or develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, or muscle pain. The typical signs and symptoms and their prevalence are shown in the corresponding table.
