How Masks Protect Us From Infection

Once COVID-19 and coronavirus became staples of our vocabulary, masks officially became part of our everyday attire.

Unfortunately, rumors and myths have continued to percolate about what exactly masks protect us from and what they fail to keep at bay.

However, there are a few key points to keep in mind the next time you consider not wearing a mask.

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First, when you do don a mask, that protective covering blocks out most of the larger droplets coming out of your own mouth and nose. Because droplets can carry the virus, this means that you could be infected and thus spreading the virus to others nearby.

Even if you feel no symptoms, wearing a mask still protects those around you in the event you may carry the virus without displaying symptoms.

A word of caution, though. Some droplets are so small that they can make their way through the mask, especially along the edges.

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While masks provide a small amount of protection from other people’s droplets, that doesn’t mean you should settle for a simple cloth mask. If you are part of a high-risk group, a surgical mask will provide much stronger protection.

Of course, some people elect not to wear a mask. That could spell serious trouble not only for yourself but also for others in your circle.

Anytime you put yourself in a situation with other maskless people, everyone runs the risk of infection and subsequently spreading the virus to even more people.