In the wake of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, questions about the efficacy of face masks in preventing virus spread became as widespread as the virus itself. Now, three and a half years later, what does scientific research reveal about the effectiveness of wearing face masks?
During a recent interview on 60 Minutes, CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook explored this question with Linsey Marr, an expert in aerosol science and a professor at Virginia Tech University.
According to Marr, face masks play a crucial role in reducing the risk of contracting COVID-19 by minimizing the amount of virus one might inhale from the surrounding air. While no mask can claim 100% effectiveness, even an 80% efficient mask can provide significant protection.
“High-quality masks can block particles of the same size as those carrying the coronavirus,” Marr explained. Masks act as filters, not sieves, requiring virus particles to navigate around layers of fibers. This process increases the chances of particles colliding with the fibers and getting trapped, offering a layer of defense against the virus.
Marr compared the mask’s function to moving through a forest of trees: walking slowly makes the surroundings easy to navigate, but speeding through increases the likelihood of collisions. Even cloth masks, Marr emphasized, contribute to reducing the risk of infection.
Addressing concerns about contaminated masks causing infection, Marr dismissed early pandemic fears. Her team conducted studies, aerosolizing the coronavirus and pulling it through various masks. The results showed that while some viral particles remained on certain cloth masks, no virus survived on N95s or surgical masks. Additionally, tests involving artificial skin in contact with masks revealed no transfer of infectious virus particles.
Marr’s research brings reassurance, suggesting that worries about mask-related infections may be less warranted than initially thought. Understanding the science behind face mask effectiveness provides valuable insights as we continue to navigate the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reference – Face mask effectiveness: What science knows now (msn.com)
