To mask or not to mask: Modeling the potential for face mask use by the general public to curtail the COVID-19 pandemic

Many people are staying at home as much as possible, avoiding mass gatherings and practicing social distancing. They haven’t shown any symptoms that would indicate they have COVID-19. But should they wear a mask when they make that quick trip to the grocery store?

According to a new research study from Arizona State University, the answer is yes.

People can spread COVID-19 to others, even if they don’t feel sick. Wearing a face covering over the nose and mouth can be effective in protecting other people in case the wearer is affected but doesn’t show symptoms. If the wearer is healthy, a face covering also helps to prevent them from being infected by others.

• Read the press release from Arizona State University.
• Read the full paper published in Infectious Disease Modeling.

To mask or not to mask: Modeling the potential for face mask use by the general public to curtail the COVID-19 pandemic 
Steffen E. Eikenberry, Marina Mancuso, Enahoro Iboi, Tin Phan, Keenan Eikenberry, Yang Kuang, Eric Kostelich, Abba B. Gumel
Infectious Disease Modelling