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Published on: February 12, 2021
Assessing effective mask use by the public in two countries: an observational study
Clare L Atzema1,2,3, Ivona Mostarac4, Dana Button5
1Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada clare.atzema@ices.on.ca.
Mask mandates significantly increased mask-wearing during COVID-19. While some improper use occurred, mask wearers had fewer disease transmission opportunities, highlighting the need for targeted public health interventions for the elderly and transit users.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated public health measures like mask-wearing.
- Compliance with mask mandates and their effectiveness in reducing disease transmission opportunities remain critical areas of study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess mask usage, incorrect mask usage, and disease transmission opportunities in public settings.
- To evaluate the impact of mask mandates on mask-wearing behavior and adherence.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in 11 outdoor and indoor public settings across Toronto and Portland.
- 36,808 individuals were observed for mask use, incorrect mask use, and breaches in physical distancing (within 2 meters).
Main Results:
- Mask mandates were strongly associated with increased mask use (OR 79.2).
- 13.6% of mask wearers used masks incorrectly; higher rates were observed in older adults and transit users.
- Mask wearers exhibited a significant reduction in disease transmission opportunities (RR 0.19).
Conclusions:
- Mandatory mask use effectively increased mask-wearing and reduced transmission opportunities, despite some incorrect usage.
- Public health interventions should target the elderly and transit users to improve mask compliance and reduce disease transmission.
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