While it is true that simple N95 masks are not a panacea, they do accomplish a few things: first, they DO filter out some germs (whether coronavirus or not); they also serve as a constant reminder to people NOT to touch their face, especially their nose or mouth, and that if they are going to do so then they should wash their hands. Finally, if someone sick is wearing the mask and they sneeze or cough, less (not none, to be sure, but LESS) of whatever they have is going out in an aerosol to infect others.
So they’re not perfect by any means, but they ARE a whole lot better than nothing.
The best thing that people can do is:
1) Stay away from crowds;
2) Wash hands frequently and thoroughly;
3) Get enough sleep; and
4) Take a bunch of vitamins to rev up your immune system.
People do those things, and the spread of this disease (or any other) will be severely limited - and for those that get it, if they’re immune system is stronger, they will recover sooner and in larger numbers.
Sorry. Washing hands and avoiding crowds is good policy. But face masks and vitamins are worthless.
The USA company in China making N95 masks was nationalized by China before this all hit the headlines & Kalitta Air was evacuating out Americans. Before they nationalized the US company, China had stopped EXPORTING the masks. I say this virus problem in China has been going on for some time.
Unless there are other locations manufacturing those masks, this will get alot worse.
My doctor said
1. don’t touch your face.
2. wash your hands.
3. don’t touch your face.
4. wash your hands.
That’s how I survived 10 years as a classroom teacher rarely getting the flu.
Now my hands are dry mess becuase of it...