Coronavirus, Face Masks and America’s New Fault Line

Face mask are a symbol of the pandemic era – a visual metaphor for that tiny, unseen viral foe that could be lurking around any corner. Some opt for a scarf wrapped around their face, others make do with a t-shirt yanked up over their mouth. The more creative hook colourful homemade varieties around their ears, while a lucky few wear distinctive surgical masks or, rarer still, N95 respirators.

The study found masks don’t necessarily stop healthy people from catching Covid-19 but do stop people spreading the herpes simplex virus further.

But some people decide to add an additional filter with their masks as an extra protective layer to mimic the powerful N95 masks found in hospital settings. DIY masks made out of HEPA vacuum bag filters and occasional filters happen to be starting out gain popularity on Pinterest. And odds are, you’ve probably seen them on Instagram, too.

Vietnam implemented fines for many who don’t wear them, while the Philippines is also requiring a lot more than 50 million people on Luzon Island to put on masks or improvised face shields outside their houses. Singapore shifted its information on markers last week, and India’s government issued a manual explaining how to make reusable masks in your house.

In this article, we’ll tell you your various options, explain how each works, the length of time they last, who they’re suitable for and the way much they cost.

Across the world, face masks are increasingly considered as a step from lockdown, with a few countries mandating them in public places. Despite Sturgeon’s recent comments, the remainder of the UK still isn’t following suit. So, what gives? It’s problematic and controversial question. There have been concerns that folks will rush to get medical-grade masks causing the NHS to manage sustained supply shortages, knowing that masks could develop a false feeling of security and lead to a lapse in social distancing. It is also unclear if goggles actually protect individuals against the novel coronavirus.


“But should you be wearing the mask to safeguard others, putting it on will create a sense connection to those in your community,” she says. “You’ll see others wearing masks like a sartorial sign actually ready to sacrifice some freedom and comfort to the common good.”