![]() “The CDC study referenced noted that mask mandates were associated with statistically significant decreases in county-level daily COVID-19 case and death growth rates.” What the Study Found “The data we now have conclusively show that widespread use of masks is a very effective way to reduce the spread of COVID-19,” said CDC’s Jasmine Reed in an email. But conservative outlets and social media users turned those findings around to say the CDC found face masks have a “negligible impact” on COVID-19 outcomes and that mask mandates “made no statistical difference.”Ī story published by One America News Network, a conservative cable channel, on March 7, falsely claimed the CDC “has admitted face masks do little to prevent the spread” of the virus and that the numbers in the study “ didn’t exceed statistical margins of error.” The story has been seen by over 230,000 users on Facebook.Ī CDC spokesperson told us that’s not correct. The findings support the premise that mask requirements help limit the potential exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which therefore reduces the spread of the disease, COVID-19. The growth rates of daily COVID-19 cases and deaths slowed significantly in counties where states required masks, according to a study that analyzed the impacts of last year’s state-issued mask mandates across the country. For more, see our SciCheck story, “ The Evolving Science of Face Masks and COVID-19.” Layered, tightly woven cloth masks offer more protection, while well-fitting surgical masks and KN95 respirators provide even more protection and N95 respirators are the most protective. Loosely woven cloth masks are the least protective. ![]() The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people wear the most protective mask that fits well and can be worn consistently. Masks, however, should not be viewed as foolproof, as no mask is thought to offer complete protection to the wearer or to others. Some research also indicates face masks can protect the wearer as well. While each of these study types has its limitations, collectively, most experts agree that masks are likely to reduce transmission of the coronavirus and should be used by members of the public when around other people. Numerous studies similarly document an association between self-reported mask wearing and control of the virus in a community or the implementation of a mask mandate and a subsequent decline in COVID-19 cases. ![]() Analyses of people who came into contact with those with COVID-19 have also found mask-wearing to be associated with a reduced risk of contracting the virus. Lab tests, for example, show that masks can partially block exhaled respiratory droplets, which are thought to be the primary way the virus spreads. ![]() ![]() Multiple lines of evidence back the use of face masks to limit the spread of the coronavirus. ![]()
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