A Different Perspective on Masks, April 16, 2020

A Different Perspective of Masks

We are about 2 weeks out from the CDC recommendation to wear masks in public places (in addition to social distancing, hand washing, etc). But, locally, it seem like the utilization of masks (and, I'm talking about cloth face coverings, not surgical masks or N95s) is pretty low. In response to that, I thought I might offer a possible change in perspective.

Wearing a mask is not about protecting yourself. Wearing a mask is about protecting others. You shouldn't wear a mask out of fear of getting sick. You should wear a mask out of respect for others' well-being.

So, perhaps, to think of wearing a mask as a courtesy to others - a show that you are willing to deal with the discomfort, embarrassment, etc that comes from wearing a mask, in order to help keep them safe - might be the change in perspective you need.

I believe this will be a key to re-opening many of the businesses in our area safely. We wear masks in my office anytime a patient is present. Not because we're afraid of getting sick, but so they feel assured that we are committed to protecting them.