Will a face mask protect you from the corona virus?

Dr. Marc Siegal, a New York University clinical professor of medicine, says the science is inconclusive.

If you are carrying the covid-19 virus even if unaware you have it, it may protect others from your infection.

But as for your own protection, masks do little good..

The mask's purpose is to protect others from you if you are infected.

A study published in Nature Medicine in April looked at 246 people with acute upper respiratory illness.

It found that wearing a surgical mask did decrease spread of respiratory viruses, including corona viruses.

The researchers wrote that masks could be used by ill people to reduce transmission to those who are not infected.

Another April study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, revealed that sick patients’ coughs propelled droplets through masks.

Wearing a mask seems harmless but could provide a false sense of security, leading you to take fewer precautions.

The World Health Organization reported self-contamination and reuse or improper disposal of masks can hinder their effectiveness and help them spread the virus.

Wear a mask if you must. Dr, Siegal said, but vigilant hand-washing and social distancing will protect you much better.