With so many contrasting views from experts, why is it compulsory to wear mask in certain situations?

DR HAROLD Harvey’s letter (Write Back, August 18) saying we should be made to wear masks in church shows the disparity in views of the medical profession on the subject.

A fortnight ago you published a letter from a doctor in Londonderry, who said the exact opposite, and this could be replicated throughout the profession, showing there is no agreement on the subject as there is no hard evidence.

Indeed, seeing pictures of discarded masks on the ground would indicate the possibility of germs and viruses being more widely spread as a result.

Like most others, my husband and I have abided by the rules during the pandemic, but we are getting tired of being told what to do as though we are children.

And if, as the doom-mongers say, we are facing another wave, we will find it very difficult, on the basis of the evidence so far, to continue taking orders from those who have changed their minds so often when proven wrong on the basis of their predictions.

I see that today there is nobody in hospital in all of Northern Ireland with Covid-19 despite all the local spikes recently, as well as the large outdoor gatherings, and there must have been older people in some of the affected groups, at least, which suggests either that the virus is weakening, or people are becoming immune to it.

So, I suggest that if people wish to wear masks, let them do it, but do not make it compulsory.

I would also ask Dr Harvey if he has heard of the “candle test”? This involves lighting a candle and holding it between 15 and 18 inches from your face and singing.

The candle barely moves, showing that not much air is expelled. By contrast, try whispering and the candle will go out immediately.

Perhaps all those who are forbidding singing in church should get the message.

STELLA WILSON Tandragee, Co Armagh