To mask or not to mask . . . that is the question

There is a lot of talk on all over the media, especially social media, about the opinions and information related to the need and effectiveness of wearing a mask to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. So, is it really needed or just a recommendation without any real reasoning behind it?   

My opinion, is that when we make decisions in life, it should be based on a risk/benefit analysis. 

Will wearing a mask harm you in any way? It does not appear that it will. Other than being slightly uncomfortable, there is no risk to wearing a mask.

Will wearing a mask benefit you in any way? The short answer is yes. Does a mask completely remove your risk of getting COVID-19? Absolutely not. Does wearing a mask help to protect others? Yes, if you are an asymptomatic patient with COVID-19, it will help prevent you from unknowingly spreading COVID-19 to others. Wearing a mask, combined with good hand hygiene and social distancing, together should reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19. I understand that a cloth mask cannot prevent the COVID-19 virus from passing through it, however, it can reduce the distance and velocity at which the virus can travel from an infected person.   

Bottom line, I feel the benefits of wearing a mask definitely outweigh the risk. The mask is not only for your protection, but for the protection of others. If you are going to a store or location where social distancing is difficult, then the benefits of wearing a mask definitely outweigh the risks. If you are sitting in your car by yourself, definitely not necessary, but if it makes you more comfortable then do it.

Unfortunately we don't have enough research or evidence at this point to determine the exact efficacy of wearing a mask, but I don't feel it will hurt to be careful in situations where social distancing are difficult. Stay safe. Stay healthy.