Dr. Anthony Fauci, chief medical advisor to President Biden at COVID-19, said that two facial masks are probably more effective than one against the new coronavirus, despite significant uncertainties about the subject.
“If you have physical coverage with one layer, putting another layer on it just makes sense that it is probably more effective,” Fauci told NBC News on Monday.
FAUCI SAYS RU COVEN-19 DAMAGE CAN ‘CAUSE MORE DAMAGE’, WE WILL TEST THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE VACCINE
CDC TO REQUIRE FACIAL MASKS DURING TRANSIT: REPORT
Infectious disease experts at Stanford Health Care, Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins University recently told Fox News that there is little or no evidence on the subject.
Neysa Ernst of Johns Hopkins University, where she serves as a managing nurse at the Biocontainment Unit, agreed, although she proposed that the anecdotal evidence suggests that additional layers may offer “psychological security” to some.
“In this pandemic, psychological security is important, as it provides a sense of control in an unfamiliar environment,” wrote Ernst.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the masks should have two layers of breathable fabric, with a comfortable fit covering the nose and mouth.
GET FOX NEWS APPLICATION
There is some conflicting advice on double masking, which suggests that there is still not enough research behind it. When used correctly, a single face mask made of “appropriate material” usually offers sufficient protection, said Paula Cannon, distinguished professor of molecular microbiology and immunology at the University of Southern California (USC) Keck School of Medicine, in an email. .
“However, using two can provide additional protection. A second mask can create a firmer seal around your face and also help protect the masks from slipping,” she added.
Another doctor, Dr. Dave Hnida, previously told CBS that two masks can create yet another “obstacle course” for viral particles in an attempt to route air through the body and into the lungs.