Does Wearing a Mask Benefit You?
Various states across the United States embarked on re-opening procedures in recent weeks and months. New guidelines and protocols are being implemented depending on which state you reside in. Here in Florida, we’ve experienced some of the highest numbers of positive cases for COVID-19, when compared to other states and the rest of the world. We’ve all been taking precautions to mitigate the spread of the virus, including social distancing procedures, revised business hours, many health offices offer online appointments, strict sanitization procedures, and mask mandates/suggestions. Some individuals have question regarding masks though. How effective are they? Do they truly offer benefits? The answer is yes, and here’s why:
Cloth Mask Benefits:
Cloth face coverings and masks are recommended as a simple barrier to assist in the prevention of spreading respiratory droplets that travel into the air on onto other people and surfaces. These droplets can spread from person to person while sneezing, coughing, raising your voices (yelling) or simply by talking. The masks stop the bigger droplets from spreading the virus and reduce the ‘spray’. The droplets are more easily spread when in close proximity to another individual, a distance less than 6 feet. So, it is particularly important to wear a mask when social distancing guidelines are difficult to adhere to, such as in a crowded space or while working in close proximity to another individual.
Asymptomatic Carriers Spread COVID-19
An individual can have COVID-19 and not show any symptoms; thus, they are unaware they even have the virus, these are known as asymptomatic carriers. It’s due to this reason, that it’s even more important to maintain social distancing and wear a face covering or mask.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that the general public as a whole participate in mask wearing whether or not your specific region has a mandate or not. This includes everyone except children under the age of 2 or anyone who has difficulty breathing, is incapacitated or unconscious. It also excludes those who are unable to remove the mask without assistance.
The CDC also recognizes that wearing a mask or cloth face covering might not be possible in every single situation throughout our daily lives, and in some cases may even exacerbate various mental or physical health conditions. There are other alternatives and adaptions available if this is the case for you or a loved one.
It’s best to consult the physicians of Suntree Internal Medicine of Melbourne, Florida for further guidance for questions relating to mask wearing. Our physicians are up-to-date on the latest information put forth by the CDC. It is our goal to protect the health of not only our patients but our community as well. We understand this has been a trying time, and know that if we all work together, we can help to mitigate the spread of the virus and support each other. Please contact us today with any questions or to schedule an appointment with one of our physicians.
