You’re right to suggest that the Nurses aren’t being well protected by the surgical masks (vs. 95). They are still protecting patients and co-workers though.
The medical establishment mislead us about masks — motivated by the need to ensure a supply for medical workers. We were supposed to believe that masks are useless — unless you’re a health-care worker; in which case, they’re absolutely essential and life-saving.
Next, we’re supposed to believe that we’re all too stupid to wear a mask properly — as if it takes years of study to learn the trick. N-95 masks do need to be fitted properly; but, anyone who can’t wear a surgical mask properly shouldn’t be allowed to drive a car.
When it was believed that the virus only spread from touching surfaces; the health officials had a point about masks. We’ve known for several weeks now that the CCP virus spreads as an aerosol, and it’s likely even airborne. Masks do help prevent the spread by those means.
We also know that asymptomatic people can spread the disease. If you haven’t been tested, or if you haven’t recovered from the disease; you should assume you have it and are a carrier. Civic-minded people (which, I still hope describes the majority of FReepers) will wear a mask to protect everyone around them.
Thank you for an articulate, well-reasoned post.
Especially the last paragraph.
I don’t know why so many are so belligerent and resistant to wearing a mask. Perhaps because they are being told they “have” to, and resent being told what to do?
While I believe some governors have overstepped their authority, I don’t think wearing masks in areas where the spread is likely to be some great infringement to the constitution that requires CW2.
I believe in “doing unto others...” and if I assume I am a non-symptomatic carrier and others are not, I will wear a mask to prevent the spread.