Mask use during COVID-19: A risk adjusted strategy.

Journal Article (Review;Journal Article)

In the context of Coronavirus Disease (2019) (COVID-19) cases globally, there is a lack of consensus across cultures on whether wearing face masks is an effective physical intervention against disease transmission. This study 1) illustrates transmission routes of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2); 2) addresses controversies surrounding the mask from perspectives of attitude, effectiveness, and necessity of wearing the mask with evidence that the use of mask would effectively interrupt the transmission of infectious diseases in both hospital settings and community settings; and 3) provides suggestion that the public should wear the mask during COVID-19 pandemic according to local context. To achieve this goal, government should establish a risk adjusted strategy of mask use to scientifically publicize the use of masks, guarantee sufficient supply of masks, and cooperate for reducing health resources inequities.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Wang, J; Pan, L; Tang, S; Ji, JS; Shi, X

Published Date

  • November 2020

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 266 / Pt 1

Start / End Page

  • 115099 -

PubMed ID

  • 32623270

Pubmed Central ID

  • PMC7314683

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1873-6424

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 0269-7491

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115099

Language

  • eng