All,

 

A coworker of mine sent me a review from University of Minnesota on the topic. I haven’t had time to dig into it in detail, but my speed-read says that they have the same concerns as Neal regarding the unfounded sense of protection. http://www.cidrap.umn.edu/news-perspective/2020/04/commentary-masks-all-covid-19-not-based-sound-data

 

Sincerely,

 

Jack Reidy (he/him)

Research Safety Specialist

Environmental Health & Safety

Stanford University

484 Oak Road, Stanford, CA, 94305

Tel: (650) 497-7614

 

 

 

More jurisdictions are urging their citizens to use cloth facial barrier devices, such as scarfs, bandanas, etc whenever outside. I have changed my opinion of such non-standard facial protection.  Based on published analysis of cases comparing facial protection use and not, those countries where it is either mandatory or socially driven seem to have better outcomes (yes, it is a multi-factorial problem and this is but one factor).  My concern with the user having an unfounded sense of protection seems to be too conservative.  The risk:benefit ratio appears to favor the benefit. One additional benefit I had not previously considered is that the use of a facial barrier protection serves as both a reminder and a barrier to reduce touching one's face.

 

I have not yet decided if I personally will use a cloth facial barrier in lieu of the full face HEPA respirator I currently wear when I must leave my home.

 

Please note – I am not talking about employees in a critical sector facility.  I am only speaking to people who must go food shopping, etc.

 

Stay healthy and stay safe.

 

Neal

 

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