Name:   MartiniMan - Subject:   Seems to me the problem with masks Date:   5/19/2021 12:29:11 PM

I totally agree that the only value of masks is they will stop droplets but so will covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze.  But even the N95 mask allows particles that are 1,000 times larger than the virus to enter or escape....and that doesn't include what goes in and out of the sides of the mask. Just wear one with glasses and you will see how much of your exhaled air just flows out the sides when they fog up.  Same amount enters through the sides when you inhale as it is the path of least resistance.  Common sense tells you they do little to nothing to prevent inhaling or exhaling airborne virus particles, which is why studies using meta data have universally demonstrated no difference in infection rates based on mask usage.

The reality is that there is zero chance they can design a mask that works for the masses.  In our business where we deal with chemical and biological hazards we are required to wear full face respirators that are fit tested annually and have the proper cartridges to eliminate the chemical or biological hazard at a site.  No facial hair allowed.  And that's just for Level B.  Level A, the really nasty stuff, requires use of an impermeable suit with supplied air and a full face, fit tested respirator under the suit.  None of that would work for hundreds of millions of people.....and absent these measures no mask is going to work.