The controversy surrounding the need for facial coverings during the COVID-19 Pandemic continues to be a concern. It is important to understand that wearing a mask or facial covering is not about protecting yourself but about protecting others.
The Urine Test
A meme was shared recently comparing the virus spread to a person uncontrollably peeing everywhere. If no one was wearing pants and one person peed, the people around them would get soaked in pee. If one person was wearing pants and someone peed, the person wearing pants would get less pee on them than if they had no pants at all. Finally, if everyone wears pants and someone pees, the pee will be confined to the person that peed.
Wearing a mask is similar to the urine test. If you are asymptomatic, without knowing, you risk spreading the virus to others through air droplets, coughing and sneezing. According to recent studies, individuals can spread the virus to others several days before showing symptoms.
Masks
Fabric and homemade masks have become very common. Some controversy surrounded these kinds of masks initially, but research has proven that cloth masks are effective in preventing the spread of the virus. It is important to wash cloth masks after using them to ensure any pathogens on the outside of the mask do not spread. Additionally, when you remove the mask, wash your hands immediately.
If you use disposable masks, wash your hands after removing the mask to ensure you do not spread potential pathogens.
Protect Yourself And Others
Wearing a mask not only protects yourself from potential pathogens entering your body but also protects others. If everyone plays their part and protects each other by protecting themselves then we can together slow the spread of COVID-19.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
