COVID 19: Wearing masks reduces new Covid-19 cases by 53 per cent

COVID 19: Wearing masks reduces new Covid-19 cases by 53 per cent

Mask-wearing is the single most effective way to tackle Covid, reducing its incidence by 53 per cent, as the first global study of its kind shows.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of non-pharmaceutical interventions have found that mask-wearing, social distancing and hand-washing are all effective at curbing Covid-19 infections. The results highlight the need to continue practising all Covid safety measures, especially mask-wearing.

Multi-faceted measures, such as lockdowns and closures of borders, schools and workplaces, need further analysis to assess their potential negative effects on populations.