Журнал тропических болезней и общественного здравоохранения

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Face Masks and the SARS CoV-2: Is It Time to Un-Mask?

Liaqat Ali Khan, Awaji Qasem Al-Nami

Many preventive measures were implemented: in almost every country globally, including the mandatory use of face masks in public places to prevent the transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS CoV-2), the virus responsible for coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). Face mask use was mandatory in the peaks of COVID-19 throughout the previous two years. The severity of SARS CoV-2 decreased as seen in the latest wave of the variant of concern (omicron), possibly due to the mass immunization against the SARS CoV-2. Therefore, many countries relax the preventive rules, as implemented during the pandemic, including the mandatory use of face masks in public places. However, multiple studies show the beneficial effects of face masks in droplets and airborne transmission of diseases. Therefore, it t is worthy opting: for face mask use even if it is optional in closed public places with poor or not all ventilation where keeping distance is impossible.