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Video Shows How Masks Actually Work In Preventing The Spread Of Covid-19

While the debate on masks is still going on, the researchers at the University Of New South Wales used a LED lighting system and a high-speed camera to actually prove the effectiveness of different face coverings. “If you’re not sure whether wearing a face mask is worth it, or you need to wear a mask but are unsure which type, our new research should help you decide,” the scientists write. They took videos of people talking, coughing, and sneezing. In one scenario, the person was not wearing any mask; in two others, they wore two different types of cloth masks; and in the last one, the person wore a surgical mask.

More info: University Of New South Wales

The latest case study conducted by the University of New South Wales compares the effectiveness of face coverings

Image credits: UNSW

The conducted experiment revealed that a surgical mask was the most effective one at blocking droplets and aerosols when the person was either talking, coughing, or sneezing. However, the researchers say that if you can’t find yourself such a mask, “a cloth mask is the next best thing.” And apparently, the more layers there are, the better.

People were filmed talking, coughing, and sneezing while wearing different masks, or not wearing any at all

Video Shows How Masks Actually Work In Preventing The Spread Of Covid-19

Image credits: UNSW

To film the case study, the researchers used a high-speed camera and LED lighting system which allowed them to visualize the droplets that we otherwise wouldn’t see. The experiment confirmed that speaking, too, does generate droplets. Naturally, coughing and sneezing produce even more of them.

The researchers concluded that to be on the safe side, it’s recommended to wear a mask with at least two layers of fabric

Video Shows How Masks Actually Work In Preventing The Spread Of Covid-19

Image credits: UNSW

One of the things that the experiment also helped to see was that, while a single-layer cloth face covering can reduce the spread of droplets, it’s not as good as a two-layered one, let alone a surgical mask. Although researchers say that a 12-layered cloth mask is about as protective as a surgical mask, they “acknowledge it’s difficult to sew together 12 layers of fabric.” So here’s what they recommend: sew at least three layers together; use water-resistant fabric for the outer layer; choose a fabric with a tighter weave; and use hybrid (cotton–silk, cotton–chiffon, or cotton–flannel) fabrics as they provide better filtration.

Watch the video case study below

Image credits: UNSW

Here’s what people online said about it

Video Shows How Masks Actually Work In Preventing The Spread Of Covid-19

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Neringa is a proud writer at Bored Panda who used to study English and French linguistics. Although she has many different interests, she's particularly drawn to covering stories about pop culture as well as history. While not at the office, this Panda enjoys creepy movies, poetry, photography and learning how to play the piano.

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Leo Domitrix 4 years ago

Yep. But for pity's sake, please wash your cloth masks. Don't re-use disposable ones. And don't leave them dangling from your rear view mirror. A hot car is a nice incubator for germs of all kinds... Also, just ew! Yuck! Keep three reusable masks ---- wash, wear & spare!

13points

Gin 4 years ago

Actually, University of Georgia did a study and found that a mask can be desinfected in a hot car (55C) in 20mins. This requires outside temp of 27C and a car in the sun for about an hour. If the temp in the car reaches 60C, it only takes 5mins to desinfect.

8points

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deanna woods 4 years ago

I will never understand why people would refuse to do something that keeps themselves and others safe. I live in Texas, which is one of the hotspots, and it has gotten to the point that it is now required to wear a mask in most businesses and if you don't have one on when you come to the door, they will give you one. It is really simple:wear a mask and Covid might go away faster or keep fighting about it and it won't. Also on a side note: QUIT HAVING THE STUPID COVID PARTIES. If the test comes up positive then that means you have it, end of story.

5points

Stille20 4 years ago

Everyone should be wearing masks in public, but this is the figurative preaching to the choir. There are hundreds of these videos out there. People not wearing masks are simply choosing to ignore the facts.

5points

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