what is the science behind ‘masks help stop you spreading germs , but don’t stop you catching them’

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This is something I’ve heard a lot, and assuming it’s true, what’s the science behind it? Surely holes in masks are the same size no matter whether the germs are heading in or out, but I’m guessing it’s not about the holes and I’m missing something.

Obligatory disclaimer: I’m not an anti-masker, I’m still wearing it in shops for example. This is just me wanting to understand.

In: Biology

25 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

The virus is carried by little drops of water you spit around.

Imagine a guy with a small shield (the shield can’t cover his entire body) and another guy is shooting arrows at him from 10 meters away. Sooner or later an arrow will hit a leg or another part of the victim (for the virus: hands eyes and clothing are all valid targets)

Now place the same shield just an inch in front of the bow. How can an arrow ever leave the bow in the first place?

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