Unmasking the mask studies: why the effectiveness of surgical masks in preventing respiratory infections has been underestimated.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pre-pandemic empirical studies have produced mixed statistical results on the effectiveness of masks against respiratory viruses, leading to confusion that may have contributed to organizations such as the WHO and CDC initially not recommending that the general public wear masks during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Methods

A threshold-based dose-response curve framework is used to analyse the effects of interventions on infection probabilities for both single and repeated exposure events. Empirical studies on mask effectiveness are evaluated with a statistical power analysis that includes the effect of adherence to mask usage protocols.

Results

When the adherence to mask usage guidelines is taken into account, the empirical evidence indicates that

SUBMITTER: Kollepara PK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8499874 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature