As the COVID-19 pandemic affects the United States with more and more cases this summer, scientists are working at record speed in order to develop a vaccine so things can get back to normal. Until that point, there are things we can do to help slow the spread, including wearing masks.
Masks have become a hot-button issue and unfortunately were politicized early in the pandemic, but the effectiveness of face coverings cannot be understated.
Wichita Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing is bringing you four reasons to wear a face mask.
- Protect Others
Yes, in some areas where there are no mask mandates, it is a personal choice. But your choice affects more than just you – it affects the health of all around you. Respiratory droplets that come out of your mouth as you cough, talk, or even breathe, are effectively blocked when wearing a face covering. The more who wear them, the less droplets that are floating around.
- You May Have COVID-19 and Not Know It
One trait of COVID-19 that makes it difficult to contain is the number of asymptomatic cases – that is the number of people who are infected but never show any symptoms. They can pass it just as easily as those who are showing symptoms, so wearing a mask can keep asymptomatic people from spreading the virus further.
- Help Your Area Recover Faster
The more precautions people take, the less of the chance that COVID-19 gets spread in your community, and that will allow your area to have an economic and social recovery quicker.
- There Are Few Other Alternatives
Absent of a vaccine or a surefire medical treatment, masks are one of the few tools we have in our fight against COVID-19. Masks, social distancing, and frequent handwashing or use of hand sanitizer are the best ways to prevent the spread of the virus right now.
To learn more about Wichita Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://wichita-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.
