Evidence strongly suggests the effectiveness of maintaining physical distance and wearing face masks in certain situations.
Fresh Take:
Here's the lowdown on the latest research to combat the spread of that gnarly SARS-CoV-2 virus. A recent meta-analysis in the reputable journal, The Lancet, has collated a boatload of studies, offering a good dose of evidence for some safety measures. Until we've got a reliable vaccine or treatment, these are the best interim strategies we got.
Covid-19 Crap:
All stats and data are based on publicly available data at the time of publication. Things change faster than a Kardashian marriage, so check our updated Covid-19 Hub for the most recent info.
The sudden coronavirus outbreak left scientists scrambling for a vaccine. It might take us 12-18 months if we ever find one. In the meantime, public health organizations have been shouting from the rooftops about social distancing, handwashing, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
As for distancing, theMeta-analysis suggests sustainable effects when maintaining a minimum distance of 1 meter (about 3.3 feet) from other people, compared to infections soaring when less than a meter is maintained. Up the distance to 2 meters, and you'll score even more protection.
As for masks, they help reduce transmission by minimizing the amount of virus particles people expel or inhale. The authors found that wearing masks significantly reduced infection risks, especially for healthcare workers and community helpers like care home workers. The sturdiest and most effective masks are those that conform to the N95 standard - but don't fret, any mask is better than nothing.
The study also gives a shoutout to eye protection, like face shields or goggles, especially for healthcare workers. These bad boys guard against those sneaky virus particles attempting to hitch a ride through your peepers.
Meta Munchings:
To clarify matters, the World Health Organization commissioned this meta-analysis. Researchers munched through 20,000 papers to find 44 comparative studies about physical distancing, masks, and eye protection. These studies looked at SARS-CoV-2, SARS (remember that one from the '00s?), and MERS-CoV, since they genetically resemble the coronaviruses we're dealing with now.
So, keep washing those hands often, stay distanced as much as possible, and pop on a mask if you're out and about. These actions help keep you and your loved ones safe until we get our hands on some sweet vaccine action!
Covid-19 Resources:
For more Covid-19 prevention and treatment advice, check out our Covid-19 Hub. Stay informed to stay safe!
Remember, though, this study offers temporary, interim guidance for policymakers and healthcare professionals. Randomized controlled trials will provide clearer evidence in the future. Until then, hang tight and don't panic!
For the latest updates on the novel coronavirus and COVID-19, click *here*.*
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