So masks aren't perfect protection. And they should never be thought of that way. They are unlikely to block all virus particles. Plus it's know covid can infect through the eyes as well.
But there were studies done with influenza that showed that the severity of illness that occurred was correlated with the initial inoculum. In other words, the more virus particles you breath in when exposed, the sicker you get.
The theory is that your system has more time to respond to only a few particles as opposed to being overwhelmed with a lot of particles.
*** The theory is that your system has more time to respond to only a few particles as opposed to being overwhelmed with a lot of particles.***
You are right in that this is how the immune system works. Exposure to small amounts of viruses help us fight off future infections. If you do get sick, you are much better protected for the next time around.
I suppose if it makes you feel better and will actually go mingle with people versus staying home, you will at least be helping yourself by going out. If someone is too afraid and stays at home avoiding people, they don’t do themselves any service at all.
I think it’s fascinating that homeless people don’t get sick much, at least not from germs. They get sick because they do horrible things to their bodies with drugs and alcohol (which is also a drug). They don’t even bathe very often.
P.S. I like that you mentioned through the eyes. If we were really trying to protect ourselves, we would all be walking around in hazmat suits. At least, it’s nice that Fauci didn’t insist we start doing that.