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July 8, 2020
Hershey, PA - In a rapidly evolving world marked by constant pandemic news, distinguishing factual information from misinformation regarding face masks can become confusing. This Medical Minute series tackles common mask misconceptions with leading experts: Dr. Catharine Paules, an infectious diseases physician at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, and Dr. Tracy Fausnight, a pediatric allergist-immunologist from Penn State Children’s Hospital.
Myth #1: Masks were not necessary during the early stages of COVID-19; hence, they aren't essential now.
Fact: Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, very little data existed on the efficacy of masks in preventing community transmission of respiratory diseases. The scarcity of cases and global mask shortages led US health authorities to refrn from recomming masks widely. However, recent studies confirm that asymptomatic individuals can spread COVID-19 through speaking, coughing, or sneezing unknowingly, emphasizing the critical role of masks for prevention.
Myth #2: Insufficient evidence supports the effectiveness of masks.
Fact: Observational studies conducted since the onset of COVID-19 highlight growing data on how mask use combined with other distancing measures can help reduce community transmission.
Myth #3: Wearing a mask restricts oxygen intake to the lungs, causing hypoxia or oxygen deprivation.
Fact: Surgical masks and cloth face coverings allow r flow into and out of the lungs without causing hypoxia. Health care professionals wear masks during prolonged procedures for several hours without developing lung issues.
Myth #4: Masks trap bacteria, fungi leading to increased risk of pneumonia.
Fact: No evidence supports this clm; in fact, patients at high risk for fungal infections like those with cystic fibrosis are advised to wear masks as a precautionary measure. It's essential to correctly wear the mask over nose and mouth and avoid touching the face.
Myth #5: Masks alone protect agnst infection.
Fact: Mask usage is effective when accompanied by other preventive actions such as social distancing and hand hygiene. They d in limiting droplet spread from infected individuals, especially those who may not be aware of their status due to mild or no symptoms.
Myth #6: Wearing a mask weakens the immune system.
Fact: The immune system encounters various pathogens regularly; wearing masks doesn't impede its ability to '' past exposures and mntn strength.
Myth #7: Herd immunity, not masks, is our only hope.
Fact: Herd immunity requires about 70 of the population to be immune through infection or vaccination to effectively prevent outbreaks. This comes at a cost, including numerous deaths from COVID-19.
Acknowledging that wearing masks might induce anxiety and claustrophobia for some individuals, this myth can indeed be managed. Dr. Paules suggests starting with brief periods indoors before gradually exting mask-wearing duration during dly activities like grocery shopping.
This Medical Minute series underscores the importance of separating myth from fact in understanding masks' role in combating COVID-19 transmission and mntning public health safety.
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