Wearing a mask is a fundamental part of the guidelines for the prevention of coronavirus infection. In the past few months of the pandemic, the practice has become politicized. As a result, many people are not wearing masks anymore. Doing so does not only put a person’s own health at risk but also the wider community’s which is why people are asking questions on convincing someone to wear a mask for coronavirus.
According to the current research on the effectiveness of face coverings, masks can make a big difference, especially during pandemics. Only by wearing a face covering, a person can significantly reduce his or her risk of catching the infection as well as spreading it to other people.
In coronavirus pandemic, masks are specifically important due to the high number of asymptomatic cases. This means that many people with the infection may not even know they have it. Hence, they may not follow instructions and end up spreading it to other people.
Wearing a mask for coronavirus regardless of having symptoms or not is, therefore, useful. The U.S. Centre for Disease Control and Prevention suggests people wear fabric masks in everyday life.
On the other hand, front line healthcare workers are at a higher risk of exposure to the virus.
This is why they should opt for masks offering a higher level of protection.
For instance, professional-grade N95 masks can be worn by hospital workers. Even people whose jobs require interaction with a large number of people can wear these masks for extra precaution.
Despite the overwhelming evidence in favor of wearing a mask, some people may still not to choose it. The issue is especially common in the US where ‘anti-maskers’ state that masks limit their freedom of choice. Others who do not wear masks may simply do it out of pandemic fatigue.
Either way, for people with a friend or family member acting the same way, it can be worrisome. Health experts argue that confronting someone for not wearing a mask is not very useful. In fact, it may even result in arguments and fights.
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However, some may still be willing to argue if it means it reduces the risk of coronavirus infection in their community, friends circle, or family.
Before attempting to convince someone to wear a mask for coronavirus, start off with a normal conversation. Make sure the other person is listening and relaxed. Prior to confronting, it is essential to ensure the environment is also quiet.
When starting the discussion on wearing a mask, try to talk generally and not target the other person. This will avoid the feeling of ‘being attacked’ by the other person. During the argument, also mention the scientific evidence to support wearing a mask.
Also, do not forget to remind the person of their social responsibility. If there is even little evidence to support a face covering can work then it is their collective responsibility of people to do so. It can help in not only lower their own infection but also help in protecting the community and ending the pandemic.