There are growing scientific arguments in favor of wearing a mask during a coronavirus epidemic. The latest suggestion of this kind is shared by Béla Merkely, rector of Semmelweis University.

Coronavirus: the second wave

Half a year after the spring outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, the second wave of the pandemic has arrived. The radical increase in the number of infected is forcing more and more countries to re-impose restrictions, despite the fact that the world economy has not even recovered from the effects of the spring outbreak. According to the signs, the second wave also reached Hungary. Follow our news!

Recently, several researchers have come up with an interesting suggestion for New England Journal of Medicine in the scientific journal. According to experts, the masks used during an epidemic can achieve the so-called variolating effect, which in theory can provide protection against the pathogen.

Although only animal experiments have been conducted so far and the theory has yet to be tested in humans, experts still consider the suggestion to be fair. Among them is Béla Merkely, the rector of Semmelweis University, who, in an article published on the university’s website, explained why it could be the basis for writing a scientific journal.

As he writes, epidemiological research around the world has suggested a link between controlling the epidemic and whether people wear masks.

Recent data from Boston show a reduction in the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection among healthcare workers due to the general use of masks. “

Merkely writes.

According to the expert, the latest virological, epidemiological and ecological data suggest that the correct use of a mask (that is, by covering both the nose and the mouth) can reduce the severity of the disease in infected people. If this is indeed the case, it will only be confirmed or disproved by further investigation and experiment. In any case, Merkely sees the recent study as another strong argument in favor of wearing a mask.

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