Aside from health pros and cons, wearing masks in public spurs political tensions between different groups of people.  Different sources of information state different statistics.  Some people feel that forcing Americans to wear masks in public is a violation of our constitutional rights where others feel it is the best way to minimize the spread of the Coronavirus while keeping others’ health and safety in mind as well as our own.

Despite the tension between the differing viewpoints of Americans, there are actual health pros and cons to wearing masks.  This is what we are covering in this article!  But before we go there, let’s delve into the different types of masks and their effectiveness.

Different Types of Masks and Their Effectiveness

1. Homemade Cloth Mask

Effectiveness of the homemade cloth mask depends on how it was constructed.  On average, a homemade cloth mask filters approximately between 1% (if it is single barrier) to 35% (double barrier) of small particles.

2. Bandana

Bandanas are not as effective as other face coverings.  While they do provide protection from cough or sneeze related droplets, it only reduces the typical spray projection from 8ft to around 4ft.

3. Store-bought Cloth mask

The store-bought cloth masks’ effectiveness also depends largely on its construction.  A three layer, tightly woven cloth mask can be 80-95% effective.  Many store-bought masks though are only one layer, and provide approximately 10-20% effectiveness.

4. Disposable Surgical Masks

Surgical face masks can filter out about 60% of particles.  Keep in mind, though, they are designed to be worn once and then thrown away.

5. N95, KN95

These facemasks offer the best protection against Coronavirus and other respiratory diseases.  95% of particles are filtered out, to be exact.  The only issue is that they are in short supply and are typically used by medical professionals.

 

Pros and Cons of Wearing Masks

Despite the different types of face masks, any mask is better than no mask according to some health experts.  That being said, what are the health ramifications (if any) of wearing masks for extended periods of time?

1. Wearing Masks Can Mess with Your Sight.

A mask goes over your mouth and nose, and if you aren’t wearing a mask with a bridge that curves to your nose, that exhaled air can go into your eyes.  If a person wears glasses, they can get fogged up! If you aren’t aware, you may unconsciously touch your eyes.  If your hands are sanitized, you may be contaminating yourself!

2. Many People State Wearing Masks is Uncomfortable.

For some, this may be true.  Finding a mask that fits is of the utmost importance.  It can dramatically reduce the amount of discomfort a person experiences while wearing a mask.

3. They May Inadvertently Draw People in Closer.

Social distancing has been key during this coronavirus, but because masks diminish our ability to communicate effectively, people may lean in to better understand one another thus ignoring the 6ft. rule.

4. They can Spread Disease if Not Washed Regularly.

Walking around with a face mask that has been worn day in and day out may defeat the purpose of trying to keep yourself and others protected from Coronavirus.  Having a dirty mask may spread germs and viruses instead of preventing them.

5. Face Masks can Hurt Children Under 2 or Those Who are at Increased Risk.

According to the CDC, any child under 2 or any person who is unconscious, incapacitated, has trouble breathing, has asthma or cannot remove the masks without assistance should not wear masks.

6. Face Masks can Irritate the Skin.

Some people have sensitive and/or dry skin and wearing a mask for an extended period of time can irritate the skin.  Putting on moisturizer before putting on a mask is recommended.

In summary, there are many pros and cons to wearing masks.  Some masks are more effective than others, and, depending on your health, you may need to opt out from wearing a mask altogether.  The point is that we have one goal during this pandemic:  to minimize the spread of coronavirus.  Be sure to take the proper precautions and to research face masks before you purchase them!

About Aquasani Water Purification Systems

Aquasani is an authorized dealer for Rainsoft, WaterLogic, & JavaSmart.  Based in Springfield, Mo., and at Lake of the Ozarks / Osage Beach in Missouri, Aquasani services areas in the Ozarks including Osage Beach, Camdenton, Aurora and even Jefferson City.  In essence, we service Mid-Missouri, Southwest Missouri, and Northwest Arkansas, and have been servicing these areas since 2004. We provide home water softener systems, drinking water filtration systems, whole-house air purification systems, and problem-solving water filtration systems for homes and offices. We also service other water softeners like Culligan, Sterling, Hydroquad, Pro-Series, and Whirlpool to name a few!

Aside from our purification systems, we also sell all-natural cleaning products and household items which are environmentally friendly and low-cost.

We specialize in water filtration and purification for both commercial businesses and residential homes.  If that isn’t enough, we provide free trials for our water cooler services.  If you would like a free estimate, schedule an appointment with us by calling (417) 881-4000 or (573) 692-4009 if you are in the Lake of the Ozarks area.

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