While there seems to be some contradictory opinions, the data seems to indicate that surgical masks are not particularly effective in limiting the spread of the virus. The homemade cloth masks likely are even less effective. An N95 respirator can be effective, but only if the user is properly trained in its use and a proper fit test is done. Don’t confuse N95 respirators with the masks that most people are wearing. A dust mask or a handkerchief or bandana wrapped around one’s face are likely doing very little good.
And those N95 masks are combined with a gown and gloves as well as a full face shield and often negative pressure airflow when used in the hospital. I’m still not convinced they do much but there you go.
Yup. If you can still smell the perfume of a lady hiker that you pass on a trail, after you’re 20 ft. apart, the mask isn’t properly sealed.