Do Masks Really Help Prevent COVID-19?

The city of Clemson recently passed a mask ordinance, requiring face masks to be worn when out in public. But you may be wondering why masks are important.

They are a key component of limiting the spread of COVID-19 until cases begin to diminish or a vaccine is produced. That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care Clemson wants to talk you through how they help and other ways you can protect yourself.

How Does COVID-19 Spread From Person to Person?

Understanding how COVID-19 spreads can help you understand why face coverings are important. COVID-19 is a type of the coronavirus, a group of viruses that cause upper respiratory infections.

The virus is spread through airborne particles, meaning particles emitted into the air when an infected person sneezes, coughs or just breathes. This can happen even if a person has no symptoms, meaning asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic people can also spread COVID-19.

Symptoms of COVID-19

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose

How Do Masks Help Prevent COVID-19?

We talked above about how COVID-19 spreads from person to person. To curb the spread of the virus, you have to limit contact with the airborne particles that contain the virus.

When everyone wears a cloth face covering over the nose and mouth when out in public, it keeps those particles inside the mask, limiting exposure. Research has found that simple step can greatly reduce the spread of COVID-19, nearly as much as a vaccine eventually will.

Other Ways to Reduce the Spread of COVID-19

  • Stay home whenever possible.
  • Steer clear of large gatherings and crowds.
  • Keep at least six feet between yourself and others out in public.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time.
  • Disinfect commonly touched surfaces often.
  • Don’t touch your face with unwashed hands.

We are excited to bring low-cost, high-quality care to our community! AFC Urgent Care Clemson will provide a full spectrum of urgent care and occupational health services.