In the United States alone, there are over 25 million cases of Coronavirus. The virus spreads by physical contact, airborne transmission, and surfaces. There are multiple ways to prevent being exposed to Covid-19. One is wearing a mask in public. With the right type of material and fitting, people can protect themselves and others. 

  When someone leaves their house to go out into town or to a social gathering, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends people two years are older wearing a mask. Masks act as a barrier against the respiratory droplets that spread in the air. Without that barrier, the person is at risk of inhaling those droplets. Not only are they exposing themselves to the virus, but the others around them. There is a chance someone has caught Covid and shows no symptoms which, is asymptomatic. People can spread it without knowing. 

  The type of mask matters as well. Adequate protection to wear is non-medical disposable masks, cotton, inner filter pockets, and tightly laced fabric. Mask with two or more layers is essential to restrict respiratory droplets from escaping into the air. Droplets can also evade if it is too loose, have large gaps, or if your mask has exhalation values or vents. Mask also needs to be made with breathable material and does not collect excess moisture. 

  There are many misconceptions about masks, such as masks are not practical. Face masks are proven to help decrease the spread of Covid along with social distancing and washing hands. Studies show mask mandates slowed down the spread and death rates of Corona. Some people also believe that since they feel fine, face protection is not a necessity. That claim is also false as 40% of transmission happens before a person starts showing symptoms. Someone can show 48 hours later or be asymptomatic. Another disbelief is mask mandates violate a United States citizen’s rights. According to the 10th Amendment, state governments can legally take emergency action and regulate public health and safety. State governments can set quarantines and business restrictions if needed. 

  With Coronavirus cases increasing, the CDC and World Health Organization recommend masks and social distancing when going out in public. Wearing a mask protects everyone in the long run and decreases the spread of the virus. Solely putting on a good quality cotton mask can keep people safe. Wearing masks does not violate anyone’s right but saves lives, lowering the increase in the death count. As long as everyone does their part and stay safe, the world can soon return to normal.