Yep, it’s that time of the year again!
Masks are an effective way to prevent transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses such as influenza by reducing (1,2,3,4,5):
- The spread of virus-containing droplets, which is especially important when the person is asymptomatic
- The inhalation of virus-containing droplets
The reality is that circumstances change. Many hoped to stop masking this summer, as cases were lower and more people were outside. But with fall, comes the resurgence of many viruses. As people gather more inside, community transmission will increase which can put vulnerable populations at higher risks (6).
Hospitals all over the country are already struggling, especially among children (6,7). Masking in public, regular hand washing, vaccines and staying home when we don’t feel good can make a very big difference right now (6,8,9).
Plus, a mask will keep your face warm and protect it against the cold wind! ️
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Yep, it’s that time of the year again!
Many hoped to stop masking this summer, as cases were lower and more people were outside. But the reality is that circumstances change. #ScienceUpFirst
[1/5] pic.twitter.com/S4D3LS3Jn4
— ScienceUpFirst | LaScienced’Abord (@ScienceUpFirst) November 29, 2022
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- Science Brief: Community Use of Masks to Control the Spread of SARS-CoV-2
- Interim Guidance for the Use of Masks to Control Seasonal Influenza Virus Transmission
- Does Wearing a Mask Protect You from the Flu and Other Viruses?
- Influenza Virus Aerosols in Human Exhaled Breath: Particle Size, Culturability, and Effect of Surgical Masks
- Effectiveness of vaccination and wearing masks on seasonal influenza in Matsumoto City, Japan, in the 2014/2015 season: An observational study among all elementary schoolchildren
- What provinces and territories are saying about mask mandates as COVID-19, RSV, flu cases rise
- Kids are getting hit hard by respiratory viruses. Here’s what scientists know — and what they don’t
- Flu mask: Should I wear one?
- Use of non-pharmaceutical interventions to reduce the transmission of influenza in adults: A systematic review