The Politics of a Health Crisis

[tw]

Originally Posted by DanaC

Really good point.

He simply forgets that a person with N95 mask, worn improperly, is still much better protected than someone wearing a bandanna improperly. Even if worn incorrectly, a superior mask remains superior protection.

It is hard to not wear a mask improperly. It covers a mouth and nose. It fits on a face. Who, other than a 4 years old, cannot figure that out?

the main reason for wearing one isnt to protect the wearer but to reduce the chances the wearer might inadvertently spread the virus if they happen to be presymptomatic or asymptomatic.

Exactly. We do social distancing, masks, etc to protect the most 'at risk' people - the medical industry. They will die if too many are infected at any one time.

Eventually 60% to 70% of us must be infected to end this. If that takes many more months, then less doctors and nurses will die.

Currently somewhere between 5% and 15% of us have been infected. In NYC, that number may be 35%. Techniques (such as masks or bandanna) only reduce a number of infected people at any one time.

We wear masks to not infect others. It does much less to protect ourselves.

[xoxoxoBruce]

Originally Posted by tw

We wear masks to not infect others. It does much less to protect ourselves.

This is true, but in both cases it's better than not.

[sexobon]

Originally Posted by tw

… It is hard to not wear a mask improperly. It covers a mouth and nose. It fits on a face. Who, other than a 4 years old, cannot figure that out? ...

“Long thread ahead!” warned the doctor before explaining how face masks really work