Benefits to wearing a mask
Wearing a facial mask is extremely important in reducing the spread of coronavirus in our community.
It provides protection for susceptible individuals in both indoor spaces such as retail stores, and outdoor spaces such as parks, from those who are already infected but do not have symptoms.
According to the CDC, masks are particularly effective when used universally within communities.
Memphis and Shelby County’s recent mask policies have greatly improved mask adherence across the county.
In an observational study of approximately 4,000 individuals shopping at large retail stores across Shelby County, researchers at the University of Memphis School of Public Health found that before the mask policies overall mask use was 51%.
After the mask policies were implemented, overall indoor mask use at these retailers increased to 92%.
The highest rate of mask use was among people over 50 years of age.
Outdoors, the public only had a rate of 67% of people wearing a mask, and most of the time those people were not wearing their masks correctly.
Shelby County residents are doing an excellent job wearing masks while shopping to protect themselves and others from COVID-19.
It important that Shelby County focuses on wearing masks correctly, covering both the mouth and nose.
It is also recommended that we focus on the groups who are still not wearing masks at a high rate--children under 18 and young adults aged 18 to 25.
Lastly, it is recommended to enforce correct mask usage even when being out for short periods of time.
For example, pumping gas within six feet of others, picking up food for takeout, and going into convenience stores.
Wearing a mask can and will protect yourself and others.
Jerelyn Carmichael, Gabby Dowdy, Erick Kalobwe and Rebecca Kronenberg are MPH students at the University of Memphis School of Public Health