Regardless of personal or political beliefs, the CoronaVirus is still affecting families all over the country and needs to continue being taken seriously. Amid such trying and confusing times, it is important to take small steps to help stop the spread of the disease. With that being said, please wear a mask. 

  State governments mandating wearing masks in public settings has become somewhat of a controversy among some Americans calling it “tyrannical” and an “infringement of their rights.”

 These people protesting in the streets against the government shutdowns and mask requirements, also argue they can cause and/or worsen breathing problems. Bill Carroll, PhD and chemistry professor at Indiana University assures Americans that masks can not harm them saying, “It is highly unlikely that you would pass out from a lack of oxygen with a cloth mask, which generally doesn’t fit tightly to your face. When you exhale or inhale, air can go around the mask as well through the pores in the material.” 

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention director Dr. Robert R. Redfield released a similar statement in July, “Cloth face coverings are one of the most powerful weapons we have to slow and stop the spread of the virus – particularly when used universally within a community setting. All Americans have a responsibility to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.”

  Since schools across the country have been reopening, cases have been spiking. Sanderson senior Rachel Webster expresses her concern for the possible reopening of Sanderson High School calling it a “logistical error.” She continues saying, “It is highly unlikely that every student will comply and wear a mask, even if it is the right thing to do during this time. Don’t be an idiot, wear a mask.”

  It is important to recognize which types of masks are the best to be wearing. Examples of safe and effective masks are listed below: 

Fabric/cloth reusable masks-  These are cost effective, environmentally friendly, and easy to make. 

Surgical masks- While these do prevent the spread of the disease, and are also cost efficient, they are disposable and not good for the environment. 

N95 masks- These masks were designed to block 95% of particles or liquids that have come into contact with your face, making them highly effective. However, these masks should not be used by the public and are reserved for health care professionals. 

  A study put together by a group of researchers from Duke University, have found that neck gaiters are actually worse than wearing no mask at all. Infectious particles and other liquids are not blocked by neck gaiters; Instead, the specific type of fabric used, breaks down the larger particles into many smaller particles, leaving them airborne for longer.

  Wearing masks is the bare minimum we can do to prevent the spread of the virus. It is important to continue social distancing, washing your hands, and not participating in large group activities. The pandemic is not going to magically disappear, everyone has to do their part and help protect those who are at-risk.