Masks are “critical” to controlling the spread of coronavirus — and that includes at home sometimes, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said Friday.
A CDC review of what works makes it clear that mask use, physical distancing, avoiding crowds and washing hands all could help control the spread of the virus — and would allow kids to go back to school and businesses to reopen.
“Consistent and correct use of face masks is a public health strategy critical to reducing respiratory transmission of SARS-CoV-2, particularly in light of estimates that approximately one half of new infections are transmitted by persons who have no symptoms,” the CDC summary of guidance reads.
The CDC has gradually been strengthening its recommendations on mask use.
“Compelling evidence now supports the benefits of cloth face masks for both source control (to protect others) and, to a lesser extent, protection of the wearer,” the CDC’s Margaret Honein, Dr. Henry Walke and colleagues wrote.
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