The World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Observational evidence supports the efficacy of face masks in health care settings ( 11, 12) and as source control in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 or other coronaviruses ( 13).Īn increasing number of localities recommend masks in community settings on the basis of this observational evidence, but recommendations vary and controversy exists ( 14). Face masks are also hypothesized to reduce face touching ( 8, 9), but frequent face and mask touching has been reported among health care personnel ( 10). Face masks are a plausible means to reduce transmission of respiratory viruses by minimizing the risk that respiratory droplets will reach wearers' nasal or oral mucosa. It can survive on surfaces for up to 72 hours ( 6), and touching a contaminated surface followed by face touching is another possible route of transmission ( 7). The virus is transmitted person-to-person, primarily through the mouth, nose, or eyes via respiratory droplets, aerosols, or fomites ( 4, 5). Measures to impede transmission in health care and community settings are essential ( 3). Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the cause of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has infected more than 54 million persons ( 1, 2).
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