By decreasing the amount of large droplet spread, it does help reduce the spread of the virus. The extent of “help” provided with regard to the spread is perhaps enigmatic, but there is certainly a difference. Some studies have shown 10-20% decrease in transmission of Flu vs. no mask regarding people in close proximity to those infected (e.g. caregivers or family members).
If anyone says it flat out prevents it, they are lying. If someone claims that it can help prevent the spread of it, they are speaking the truth. The discussion / definition needs to be parsed like that and people need to understand wearing a mask - any mask, is not a panacea.
There also remains a large contingent of people who may have enough T-cells from previous cold/flu infections which help them to fight off covid-19 or any viral infection of a similar nature (corona viruses in general). This can also skew the stats of any study looking into this, which is why I state that it is enigmatic.
The most accurate statement is to say that it reduces it. Same with being heavily confined to an indoor environment where there is minimal UV rays and less dispersion than outdoors.
The cloth mask does nothing. Even if you catch some large droplets it does not keep people from touching the mask or face then something else and it certainly does not catch all the droplets. In addition with over and over again they are just breeding grounds for bacteria and other nasties to be spread around. Better to use a kleenex if you cough or sneeze and throw it out promptly
Interesting but wrong regrettably
Is your post only about the spread of large droplets ??? Ever heard of covering you mouth with a tissue ? Masks are useless against a virus. Viruses are tiny and fly right through a mask. Maybe someone can tell me why mask mandates are occurring??? Masks are useless at preventing the spread of Covid as you admitted in your post. Masks are useless