Tuesday, March 31, 2020

CoViD-19: Cover Your Face, Dammit!


A January sunset from Lake Murray. If we had only been paying attention to China then. 
The well of scienctific knowledge about the novel coronavirus and CoVid-19 is constantly growing. But as "community spread" of coronavirus increases and information about how long the virus can hang in the air or on a surface changes, it's time (if you haven't already) to cover your face if and when you're out in public. This certainly doesn't mean you should run out and buy masks that could otherwise be used by essential personnel, but dig through your closet, your drawers, your old sports bags, and find yourself a bandanna, a scarf, or something to cover your face --your entire nose and mouth--when you're out. And as the kind man at Costco recommended to me today, you should also consider coverage for your eyes, too. Something, the science would now suggest, is better than nothing in preventing other people's droplets from entering your system or from keeping you from spreading should you be asymptomatic and carrying the virus yourself.

It's Time to Face Facts, America: Masks Work
Official advice has been confusing, but the science isn't hard to grok. Everyone should cover up. - Wired

Riverside County recommends covering face in public to prevent coronavirus - The Press Enterprise

Should you wear a mask? US health officials re-examine guidance amid coronavirus crisis - CNN Health

Should We All Be Wearing Masks In Public? Health Experts Revisit The Question - NPR

And this article argues that no, you should not, but only because they're concerned with shortages. Frankly, after reading this article about the Washington Chorale, I think saying no at this point is unbelievable irresponsible.

Should you wear mask in public if not sick with coronavirus? - PBS Newshour

Update 4/1:

LA has now given guidance that ALL PEOPLE should wear face coverings in public.

Mayor Eric Garcetti (April 1, 2020)

Early data suggests many who are infected with COVID-19 are not symptomatic, which is why we are recommending you use cloth face coverings plus physical distancing for essential activities. Do not use surgical and N95 masks, which are reserved for first responders and medical workers.


People are making their own face masks. Do they work? - Deseret News

Here's how to make an easy, no-sew face mask with materials you have at home - KOMO

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