Fauci backs ‘double-masking’ in coronavirus fight, says ‘likely more effective’
Dr. Anthony Fauci, President Biden’s chief medical adviser on COVID-19, said two face masks are likely more effective than one against the novel coronavirus, despite significant uncertainty on the subject.
“If you have a physical covering with one layer, you put another layer on it just makes common sense that it likely would be more effective,” Fauci told NBC News on Monday.
Infectious disease experts from Stanford Health Care, Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins University recently told Fox News there is little to no evidence on the issue.
Neysa Ernst from Johns Hopkins University, where she serves as nurse manager of the Biocontainment Unit, agreed, though she proposed that anecdotal evidence suggests additional layers could offer “psychological safety” to some.
“In this pandemic psychological safety is important, it provides a sense of control in an unknown environment,” Ernst wrote.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), masks should have two layers of breathable fabric, with a snug fit covering the nose and mouth.
There is some conflicting advice on double-masking, which suggests there isn’t enough research behind it yet. When worn correctly, a single face mask made of “appropriate material” typically offers enough protection, Paula Cannon, a distinguished professor of molecular microbiology and immunology at the Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California (USC), previously said in an email.
“However, wearing two can provide additional protection. A second mask can create a tighter seal around your face, and also help secure the masks so they don’t slip down,” she added.
Another physician, Dr. Dave Hnida, previously told CBS that two masks can create more of an “obstacle course” for viral particles in an attempted route from the air, through the body and into the lungs.
Filed under: General Problems
If 2 are likely better I am thinking 4 are more likely (better) if you can breath through all that. LOL. He blows with the breeze.
No one is applying “good ole physics ” to multiple masks… the more layers … the more resistance for air to come thru all those layers and in-bound air is going to come in around the edges of the masks … because no mask is going to be “tight fitting” around the edges of the mask against a pt’s face. But that is just using common sense and typical dynamic air flow
Masks are great but only in some very prescribed situations. For what Gov. wants to do with them actually creates virus traps. It’s %100 about the hands. Masks ONLY when there is known Corona cough-ers nearby.
WOW How long are they gonna milk this virus ? How long before we have to be in a bubble before you can be in public? Thought by now with election stolen an over the virus would have “disappeared” I guess they still have ways to get whatever it is out of it…What ever happen to BIDENS plan to have this virus under control in 100 days after our past President “screwed it all up?” Guess it wasnt TRUMPS fault after all……