BYU Research on the Effectiveness of Masks

Image showing a mask on a person. The proper way to wear a face mask is to pull the top over the nose and the bottom below the chin.

Earlier this month, Dr. Benjamin Abbott (along with other researchers fro Brigham Young University’s Department of Environmental Science) released findings of a study into the effectiveness of masks in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

According to their review of various controlled studies conducted across the country, there is convincing evidence that wearing masks reduces the transmission of COVID-19 for healthcare workers and the public.

From the study: “There is clear evidence that face coverings reduce
the spray of droplets produced during speaking, coughing, and sneezing. This is why masks have long been recommended for individuals with respiratory infections. Furthermore, home-made cloth
masks are similar in effectiveness to surgical masks in diffusing the “jets” of droplets that could spread COVID-19. For example, one of the most
definitive studies on viruses and face masks found a 90% reduction in influenza viruses after breathing through a mask and a complete removal of coronaviruses. Because only fitted respirators (the finest meshed masks) provide reliable protection from external droplets and viral particles, public masking works through “source control,” where “my mask protects you, and your mask protects me.”’

The study also contains links to the original studies and additional resources on mask wearing.

Access the full study results here.