In recent weeks, health officials are recommending wearing a mask and a face shield together for complete protection. As the debate on the effectiveness of the face shields alone continues with recent results are published in the journal Physics of Fluids, reported on a laboratory experiment where scientists put face shields to the test.
Laboratory testing found that while face shields stopped the droplets being propelled directly forwards the mannequin, aerosol droplets lingered at the bottom of the shield and floated around at the sides. They eventually spread approximately 90 centimeters from the mannequins.
CDC also mentions source control. The source control is considered stopping the virus from spreading at its source; that is why masks are recommended for people that contain the infection. Wearing the face shield, in this case, won’t stop the virus from spreading because of extensive openings on the side of the face. Face shields, however, are proven to reduce we’re of touching its face and also fully protect the eyes as a physical barrier.
Neither will work well if not appropriately used or cleaned and sanitized correctly and most importantly, they don’t replace physical distancing and hand hygiene. If you don’t intend to wear a mask properly or you’re unable to, then a face shield is a better option.
Read more at: The Conversation
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