Study: Mask-wearing cuts coronavirus incidence by 53%

Mask-wearing is the single most effective public health measure at tackling COVID, reducing incidence by 53%, the first global study of its kind shows.

Report informs, citing The Guardian, that results from more than 30 studies worldwide were analyzed in detail, showing a statistically significant 53% reduction in the incidence of Covid with mask-wearing and a 25% reduction with physical distancing.

The researchers said the results highlight the need to continue mask-wearing, social distancing, and handwashing alongside vaccine programs.

Researchers at Monash University and the University of Edinburgh say multi-faceted measures, such as lockdowns and closures of borders, schools, and workplaces, need further analysis to assess their potential adverse effects on populations.

Rules of mandatory mask-wearing, mostly in public premises indoors, are currently in place in many countries.