Japanese researchers have quantified pathogenic microbes on masks worn during the pandemic
- The study involved 109 participants aged 21 to 22 years who were asked about the type and duration of mask used and lifestyle habits
- Bacteria and fungi were collected from the three types of masks-gauze, polyurethane, and non-woven-worn between September and October 2020
- Face side of masks had more bacteria, whereas outer side of the masks contained more fungi
Lifestyle Habits
- The researchers also examined whether certain lifestyle habits such as gargling, consumption of natto, and use of the different modes of transportation-public transportation, personal vehicle, and walking or biking- had any effect on the microbial counts on the masks.
- "We found no differences in the bacterial or fungal colony counts on both sides of the masks among the three transportation systems," the authors wrote.
Pathogenic Microbes
- Most of the bacteria and fungi cultured from the masks were not harmful to humans.
- Some were opportunist pathogens, while others were found to cause diseases like bacteria that cause food poisoning and staph infections, and a fungus that causes ringworm, athlete's foot, and jock itch.
Scientific Evidence
- Over 150 studies and articles conclude cloth and surgical masks are not effective in slowing the spread of COVID-19
- To date, the evidence has been stable and clear that masks do not work to control the virus and they can be harmful especially to children
- In a critical review (pdf) of cloth masks used during the pandemic, the authors stated that evidence does not support community masking with cloth masks to spread the virus
- The available clinical evidence of facemask efficacy is of low quality
- 14 of sixteen identified randomized controlled trials comparing face masks to no mask controls failing to find statistically significant benefit in the intent-to-treat populations
https://www.theepochtimes.com/pathogenic-bacteria-and-fungi-found-on-masks-study_4632947.html
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