Should the general public be wearing face masks when going out to help prevent infection? The official answer so far has been no, but that may change soon.
We’ve heard it over and over. You don’t need to wear a mask unless you are sick or caring for the sick. Many preppers have ignored that advice and for good reason. Still, there are also many preppers that agree with it. The air may get cleared on the issue soon.
Just 2 days ago, CDC director Dr. Robert Redfield, admitted in a phone interview that data is “being aggressively reviewed as we speak”. Unfortunately, even if this study reveals a benefit by wearing a mask, not everyone will be convinced. I suspect that there will be an even bigger public divide on the issue than already exists. There are going to be a lot of people that will shun, shame, and call out people for wearing masks that could otherwise be directed to health care professionals.
Until now, my personal preference has been the white disposable types. This choice was made by comparing them to half face respirators with removable filters that present any number of infection dangers when replacing the filters. I have since been turned on to a third option, that of the washable & reusable fabric based masks such as the one pictured below. These masks solve 2 problems. First, they are washable and easily removed with a low risk of contaminating yourself. Secondly, they in no way resemble anything that could, or according to some people should be worn by health care workers only.
If the official opinion on masks indeed gets changed, there will have to be a massive public education campaign to ensure people understand that this is only an additional precaution and is not intended to replace proper hygeinic and social distancing practices.
If you wear a mask, put it on and leave it alone. Don’t frig with it’s placement, don’t let it hang down around your neck, and don’t touch the outside surface when doffing it. Always wash your hands. If you think you might want to start wearing a mask, get them now. If the CDC changes it’s view, these things will become the next toilet paper craze and be unavailable or unaffordable within hours.
One more point to remember…the government will not, let me repeat that WILL NOT be supplying masks to the general public.
