Background: According to current evidence, SARS-CoV-2 – the virus that causes COVID-19 – is primarily transmitted from people with the disease through respiratory droplets and contact routes. There are increasing indications that people with asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or early stages of infection can contribute to community transmission of the virus. The use of medical masks – in conjunction with hand hygiene – has been shown to prevent infection with respiratory pathogens. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is found in significant numbers in the nose and throat of infected people and is transmitted to susceptible contacts through microscopic droplets that enter through the nose, mouth and eyes. Consistent and widespread use of masks/face coverings helps reduce the spread of infection in the community by minimizing shedding of respiratory droplets from infected people, including before symptoms develop and people being aware they are infected.
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