A&E

Ask the doctors: Masks not very effective at preventing viruses

   Tue., Feb. 18, 2020
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   Dear Doctor: I work in an open-plan office, and people aren’t good
   about staying home when they’re sick. Would wearing a surgical mask
   help keep me from catching someone’s cold or flu?

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   influenza and the common cold.

   Before discussing the pros and cons of a surgical mask, it’s useful to
   understand how viruses spread. A virus is a parasite that’s so tiny, it
   can only be viewed through an electron microscope. The influenza virus,
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   their mouth, nose or eyes, they can become infected with the virus.

   Unfortunately, when it comes to using a mask to protect against
   viruses, the evidence is mixed. Some studies, which focused on health
   care workers in hospital situations, found that masks can be effective
   at preventing infection when worn properly and used consistently. But
   the weave is too loose to filter all viral materials, and masks don’t
   always stay snug. Those same face masks may actually be more effective
   when worn by someone who is sick, since they block the spray of
   infectious matter from a cough or a sneeze.

   If it makes you feel better, go ahead and wear a mask. But be sure to
   also follow additional precautions. Wash your hands frequently with
   soap and warm water, or use a hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your face
   since, as we mentioned, the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth and
   eyes are entry points for the virus. If you’re wearing a mask and then
   rub your eyes, you’ve defeated the purpose.