There is clear evidence of efficacy- several studies were linked in the article. There are fewer studies showing non-efficacy, and they tend to have methodological issues. But lets say they balanced.
If we follow your logic that there is no evidence in either direction, the consequences of following your course of action (not using masks…
There is clear evidence of efficacy- several studies were linked in the article. There are fewer studies showing non-efficacy, and they tend to have methodological issues. But lets say they balanced.
If we follow your logic that there is no evidence in either direction, the consequences of following your course of action (not using masks at all) has a far greater potential negative impact than your irritation of putting a piece of paper over your face in crowded settings or where people are vulnerable if they do work to mitigate spread. I would understand if the mask had to be stapled on or had to be on 24/7 but that simply isn't the case. Even in offices or medical settings people get breaks and can remove them for some "fresh air". Also some masks are better than others and not so difficult to breathe through without sacrificing much on the filtration. This goes back to your comparison of masks (a piece of paper or melt-blown fiber you wear with strings that is there to help others) to medication (a chemical compound which can cause serious reactions or interactions which help only yourself). There are some pretty clear differences.
There is clear evidence of efficacy- several studies were linked in the article. There are fewer studies showing non-efficacy, and they tend to have methodological issues. But lets say they balanced.
If we follow your logic that there is no evidence in either direction, the consequences of following your course of action (not using masks at all) has a far greater potential negative impact than your irritation of putting a piece of paper over your face in crowded settings or where people are vulnerable if they do work to mitigate spread. I would understand if the mask had to be stapled on or had to be on 24/7 but that simply isn't the case. Even in offices or medical settings people get breaks and can remove them for some "fresh air". Also some masks are better than others and not so difficult to breathe through without sacrificing much on the filtration. This goes back to your comparison of masks (a piece of paper or melt-blown fiber you wear with strings that is there to help others) to medication (a chemical compound which can cause serious reactions or interactions which help only yourself). There are some pretty clear differences.
Yes! the precautionary principle. Not the Wikipedia definition, but the "Act Up" one, which Fauci accepted! The Gaia people also.
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/31/opinion/anthony-fauci-hiv-aids-act-up.html