In Mexico City this week, millions of masks have been distributed to help contain the startling spread of the swine flu. Just viewing video or photos of the masked masses sends the message that this is being taken seriously, that they (and we) are in the midst of a health crisis with the potential to be big (or bigger) and scary (or scarier).
But across the border in our own country, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have not recommended that the public rush out to buy and don masks. They say there is not a lot of evidence that the masks do much for most people.
In fact, Mexico's Health Secretary Jose Angel Cordova advised citizens to wear masks in public and in closed, crowded spaced but also acknowledged that the masks the government is providing there can't completely prevent the spread of swine flu. Those masks are too porous he says, and will still be used as a public health measure.
High-filtration masks are reportedly a more effective way of filtering fine airborne particles. However, these masks must be used properly to offer that kind of protection and are said to be largely unavailable in Mexico. They are also priced higher, at about a dollar each. Experts say high-filtration masks are similar to the kind medical professionals have and should be worn if coming into contact with people who have swine flu.
An interesting element to the case for masks,even if they are porous and lacking evidence of effectiveness, is the psychological benefit they provide the public. As one crisis communication consultant quoted in this AP story noted, wearing masks gives the public something tangible to do during a health scare. This, in turn, eases anxieties and makes people take the situation more seriously.
If the swine flu came to your community, would you feel compelled to wear a mask? Even if it provided little protection, would you join the crowds of people who put one on just in case it helps?
And what does seeing all these photos and videos of people wearing masks conjure up for you, the viewer? Is it frightening or calming to see?
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[photo credit: Getty Images]
