Masks, following proper protocols, can be helpful.
Absent them, they make things worse.
How many people do you know who know the proper protocols, let alone abide by them?
Hospital staff change masks frequently, and sanitize their hands every time they touch them.
How many people do you know who wear the same mask, day after day, touching it with their hands because their nose itches?
The way most people wear them, they’re a primary source of infection.
It’s like restaurant food prep. Put the gloves on when you get to work and take them off when you leave. Never change them while working.
You should qualify your remarks. Cloth and surgical masks do not work. N95’s are likey do stop virus particles, but only up to the point of tolerance of the mask irritation. After a half hour or so, people start touching their masks. Sometimes they remove the mask and adjust them. They touch the contaminated outer surface and often even touch the inside of the mask. Others keep it in the pocket in between uses. In real world situations N95’s do not work as they are generally worn for more than half an hour.
N95’s used correctly are QUITE effective. And lower viral loads help: Even if you get sick, likely you’ll do better.
But, nothing is 100% and the protocols ARE a lot of grief. I’m good at “not touching” from past experiences and work handling nasty stuff. And current too, using most catfish baits. ;-)
It’s a bit of a learned skill, and takes willpower. Which few have. Not many FReepers, that’s for sure.
OTOH, the current “mild” COVID strains can still be real “fun” if they get into your gut. I’m on the tail end of that now. (I’d stopped wearing a mask in uncrowded places.)
It is a lot like a strong case of food poisoning or Salmonella, except it lasts longer. OMG...