Masks have become a flashpoint since last year with the surge of COVID19. Now they are part of our daily life. The funniest part is misinformation and misleading information or mask myths spread out as fast as the virus. The consequences are very adverse as in many cases people use them in a way which was basically useless, some cases respiratory infections increase and sometimes it proved as no brainer.
Let’s look at some of the common mask myths and debunk them with medical and scientific realities.
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Myth 1# Masks don’t provide full protection against COVID19
Reality: Mask can’t eliminate a 100% chance of COVID19 but reduces the chances of contamination.
The novel coronavirus spreads through respiratory droplets that are released when we cough, sneeze, talk, yell or sing. Hence, if we cover our nose and mouth, no matter what type of mask it is, that is an effective way to protect from those droplets and protecting others.
Myth 2# Only people with the weak immune system or infected need mask
Reality: Almost 40%-45% of people are asymptomatic who can be responsible for spreading COVID19.
Asymptomatic people who are mostly aged between 21-40 can spread the virus for more than 14 days without knowing it. Hence, masks are not only for sick, elderly, or infected people. It is for all.
Myth 3# People can get sick due to recirculation of carbon dioxide for wearing mask
Reality: Wearing masks for hours is the norm for health workers.
N95 masks may be a little bit uncomfortable but for most cases, cloth masks don’t trap much carbon dioxide. Hence, there is less chance of hypercapnia that is carbon dioxide poisoning. In some cases, due to lack of enough oxygen, you may find physical discomfort but overall when worn properly masks are very safe.
Myth 4# Mask protects others but not me
Reality: Mask prevents droplets to spread. Hence, everyone from getting infected.
The primary form of COVID19 transmission is droplets. So, wearing a mask prevents this transmission. Besides, it prevents people to touch the nose and mouth which is another way of spreading this disease.
Myth 5# Only covering mouth protect us from virus.
Reality: Respiratory droplets are released from both mouth and nose.
The mask should be snugly fit between your nose and chin. This way it can prevent you from inhaling or exhaling the virus whenever you cough, sneeze or breathe. So, covering only the mouth is not enough.
Myth 6# If we wear masks no need to maintain social distancing
Reality: Wearing masks and maintaining social distancing are two different precautionary measures.
We should not forget that wearing a mask and keeping social distance are two separate precautionary measures. One is to prevent spreading droplets and the other is to keep away from the source of the droplets. As no mask is 100% safe, we must maintain social distancing.
Myth 7 # Masks should be replaced daily
Reality: True for disposable masks only.
Disposable masks must be replaced after use. However, for cloth mask no need to dispose of them every time. Instead, wash them properly after every use.
Final verdict:
To conclude, apart from the mask myths mentioned above, in general, we can say though only mask usage may not stop COVID19 entirely but at least it can reduce the chances of contamination and so the mortality rate. At the same time, when almost everywhere businesses and normal activities are back in action we must maintain the correct use of mask to keep us and our surrounding safe.