Gov. Tim Walz told reporters last week that a state order requiring everyone to wear masks while in public was “on the table,” as Minnesota officials weigh next steps to curb the spread of COVID. -19.
That prompted readers of MPR News to send us a new round of questions about skins, the research on how they help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and where they are currently required.
We answered some during our last Minnesota Today podcast. This is what we find.
1) Where is the proof that the masks actually prevent the spread of the virus? I have a health condition that makes me pass out or I have anxiety where I can’t breathe. – Bettie Holscher, Savage, Minnesota.
An analysis recently published in the medical journal The Lancet examined 172 observational studies in 16 countries and found that wearing a face mask could greatly reduce the risk of spreading COVID-16.
The virus travels in small liquid particles that can move up to about 6 feet in the air. Wearing a mask catches the liquid particles that leave your body when you breathe, speak, cough, or sneeze.
The masks prevent the virus from spreading by preventing it from spreading if you have it and don’t know it. There is a lot of evidence that the virus can spread when a person shows no symptoms. Think of it this way: Wear a mask to keep your germs close to you, instead of using it to protect you from others.
There are two caveats. The CDC recommends that children under the age of 2 or people who have trouble breathing do not wear cloth masks. If you have a medical condition that affects your breathing, it is best to consult your doctor about whether or not you should wear a mask.
2) In Minneapolis, are masks mandatory? If so, where? – Sally, Minneapolis
Minneapolis and St. Paul require face coatings within businesses and other interior facilities. Minneapolis began the facial mask requirement in May, and St. Paul began its new rule for facial masks on June 1. Anyone over the age of 2 who can medically tolerate a face mask should wear a mask when in a public indoor space.
Other Minnesota cities, including Edina and Rochester, are adding mask requirements. Many universities, including all University of Minnesota campuses, require covering their faces while inside.
3) Some of my coworkers have said that masks can cause hypoxia and asthma. Is this true? – Jody, Duluth
This is a viral meme that feeds the wrong information. There is no evidence that masks alone cause hypoxia, carbon dioxide toxicity, or asthma.
Again, if you already have a medical condition that affects your breathing, talk to your doctor about whether a face mask could cause additional problems.
4) As a nurse in an ICU COVID, I have been reusing an N95 duckbill mask for multiple shifts. I wonder if there is any study on how many uses before they become ineffective. Thank you! – Elissa, Sartell, Minnesota.
A recent study by the National Institute of Health and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on reuse of the N95 mask examined four decontamination techniques: a vaporized hydrogen peroxide, a heat treatment, ultraviolet light, and an ethanol spray.
While all four methods were able to decontaminate the masks, the ethanol spray damaged the integrity of the mask fit on the face, making it less protective. Vaporized hydrogen peroxide was determined to be the most effective.
The study recommends that the mask be reused only two or three times. They also suggest that the user check the fit and seal after decontaminating the mask.
5) Is a face shield as good or better than a cloth mask? This would be so much better! – Becky, Minneapolis
Unfortunately, there is not enough research to suggest that they are effective enough to replace a face mask.
Most of the documentation that exists is just anecdotal evidence. So for now, the CDC continues to recommend fabric face masks. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear a face shield, and it might be best for you if a face mask doesn’t work for your medical condition.
Some health experts are suggesting plastic face shields for various reasons. You don’t have to worry about glasses fogging up; it can help people who use their sight to communicate; and it can help prevent you from touching your face.
Subscribe to Minnesota Today from MPR News to stay informed in less than 10 minutes every day of the week. Subscribe at Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or RSS.
What questions do you have about COVID-19 and its impacts? Share them with us here.
