Wearing face masks in confined spaces
Asking people to wear face masks in confined spaces; in particular public buildings such as shops has a number of plus points.
It is generally agreed that face masks offer very little protection to the wearer but by wearing a mask it protects others nearby from coughs and sneezes which we are told makes a large difference to the amount of contagious air that the wearer emits.
Also, seeing other members of the public wearing masks gives a sense of reassurance to people when in public buildings.
Simply, it does absolutely no harm but might help.
The counter argument is that it might divert masks from the NHS. That is a consideration however even a scarf over the nose and face is of value.
It is generally agreed that face masks offer very little protection to the wearer but by wearing a mask it protects others nearby from coughs and sneezes which we are told makes a large difference to the amount of contagious air that the wearer emits.
Also, seeing other members of the public wearing masks gives a sense of reassurance to people when in public buildings.
Simply, it does absolutely no harm but might help.
The counter argument is that it might divert masks from the NHS. That is a consideration however even a scarf over the nose and face is of value.
Why the contribution is important
See above
by Rodduncan on May 05, 2020 at 01:20PM
Posted by Ed May 05, 2020 at 13:28
I don't know why we are even debating this point.
Report this Comment (Requires Log In)
Posted by Clayton41 May 05, 2020 at 13:28
It is debatable if they have any effect ....
Report this Comment (Requires Log In)
Posted by kenmac May 05, 2020 at 13:29
Report this Comment (Requires Log In)
Posted by Ranger2dog May 05, 2020 at 13:30
Report this Comment (Requires Log In)
Posted by TheGardenMaster May 05, 2020 at 13:30
Report this Comment (Requires Log In)
Posted by gmb May 05, 2020 at 13:37
As someone with asthma who is certainly concerned about catching coronavirus, I would feel much more at risk wearing a mask in many situations. (I concede that the balance of risks might be different on public transport where you are in close quarters with others for a protracted period. But in contexts where you are moving around, and, crucially, having to touch surfaces, I fear the risk of infection from handling the mask would outweight the benefits.)
Report this Comment (Requires Log In)
Posted by markmcgeever85 May 05, 2020 at 13:52
Report this Comment (Requires Log In)
Posted by gfc2201 May 06, 2020 at 12:12
Report this Comment (Requires Log In)
Posted by JMack May 06, 2020 at 21:22
Why the contribution is important
I think that the wearing of face coverings/masks in appropriate situations is important because:
1. It is beneficial in preventing the spread of the virus.
2. It will publicly and visibly reinforce community commitment to a disciplined approach to emerging from the crisis.
3. It will be acknowledged by the our neighbours in Europe and the wider World as a reassurance that we are taking the threats of a "second wave" seriously and responsibly.
Report this Comment (Requires Log In)
Posted by WBRnotes May 08, 2020 at 20:44
I think Singapore involved the army in making and distributing a good quantity of surgical masks to every household. Might something similar be possible here ? And yes, I know getting PPE to hospitals and care homes etc has proved extremely challenging here. Just a thought.
Report this Comment (Requires Log In)