from New Mexico State University
Wearing a mask or not still seems more of a political issue than a scientific one. But now there is another issue. Masks are not enough to stop the spread of COVID-19 without distancing. Researchers at New Mexico State University tested five different types of face masks to measure how well they stopped the droplets from a sneeze or cough. All mask materials worked, but they found at distances less than six feet, enough droplets still made it through some of the masks. Without a face mask, it is almost certain disease droplets will come in contact with a nearby person, especially when less than six feet away or with multiple coughs or sneezes. The study is further evidence wearing a mask protects others.