Mask use during COVID-19: A risk adjusted strategy. (November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Jiao; Pan, Lijun; Tang, Song; Ji, John S.; Shi, Xiaoming
• Is Part Of: Environmental pollution. Volume 266:Part 1(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-11
• Subjects: SARS-CoV-2 -- Coronavirus disease 2019 -- Effectiveness -- Necessity -- Infectivity; Pollution -- Periodicals; Pollution -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; Environmental Pollution -- Periodicals; Pollution -- Périodiques; Pollution -- Aspect de l'environnement -- Périodiques; Pollution -- Effets physiologiques -- Périodiques; Pollution; Pollution -- Environmental aspects; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 363.73
• DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115099
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0269-7491

Abstract

Abstract: In the context of Coronavirus Disease (2019) (COVID-19) cases globally, there is a lack of consensus across cultures on whether wearing face masks is an effective physical intervention against disease transmission. This study 1) illustrates transmission routes of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2); 2) addresses controversies surrounding the mask from perspectives of attitude, effectiveness, and necessity of wearing the mask with evidence that the use of mask would effectively interrupt the transmission of infectious diseases in both hospital settings and community settings; and 3) provides suggestion that the public should wear the mask during COVID-19 pandemic according to local context. To achieve this goal, government should establish a risk adjusted strategy of mask use to scientifically publicize the use of masks, guarantee sufficient supply of masks, and cooperate for reducing health resources inequities. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: The mask is an effective non-pharmaceutical intervention of COVID-19. The necessity of wearing masks by the public during COVID-19 is under-emphasized. Mask use could prevent contact, droplet and possible aerosol transmission. Risk-adjusted strategies of mask use by general public in different scenarios. Mutual cooperation, publicizing, and sufficient supply of masks are recommended.