Did they do a comparison with no mask at all? I seem to recall something about the viral load having a lot to do with transmission and actual illness.
Viral load is once it is in you already, how much free virus you have
It's in the excerpt.
“Did they do a comparison with no mask at all? I seem to recall something about the viral load having a lot to do with transmission and actual illness.”
My question as well. FDA site says the following about N-95 masks which seems to indicate they are somewhat helpful but not completely helpful. So you take your chances no matter what you do I guess.
“If worn properly, a surgical mask is meant to help block large-particle droplets, splashes, sprays, or splatter that may contain germs (viruses and bacteria), keeping it from reaching your mouth and nose. Surgical masks may also help reduce exposure of your saliva and respiratory secretions to others.
While a surgical mask may be effective in blocking splashes and large-particle droplets, a face mask, by design, does not filter or block very small particles in the air that may be transmitted by coughs, sneezes, or certain medical procedures. Surgical masks also do not provide complete protection from germs and other contaminants because of the loose fit between the surface of the face mask and your face.”