Post Reply - pandemic strategies (or lack of it !)

after UV exposure or 48 hours

   https://afludiary.blogspot.com/2024/08/nature-minimal-influenza-virus.html  or https://afludiary.blogspot.com/2024/08/nature-minimal-influenza-virus.html ;
Although I've been pretty diligent in wearing a surgical (or KN95) mask when in crowded public places for the past 4 years, I'll admit I don't usually doff the equipment as methodically as most infection control experts might like, and I often reuse masks (after UV exposure or 48 hours). 
While I use hand sanitizer most of the time after removing my face covering, I'm not entirely consistent.  But between my PPEs, my COVD/Flu vaccinations - and a little bit of luck - I've gone 3+ years without a COVID (or respiratory) infection. 

Somewhat reassuringly, today we've a study in Nature that suggests that concerns over viral transfer from touching a contaminated face mask may be overblown.
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The risk of virus transmission via the touching of contaminated masks has long been assumed by infection control teams. Yet, robust evidence to support this belief has been lacking. 

This risk was investigated in a laboratory setting by measuring the amount of viable influenza virus successfully transferred from artificially contaminated medical (surgical) mask surfaces to a human finger used to swipe their outer surface under various experimental conditions. 

Despite being exposed to high levels of virus contamination on the masks, very little or no viable virus was successfully transferred from the mask to the finger in these experiments.
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This is not to say that hand-washing and fomite transmission precautions are not important. This study, together with another12, simply suggests that the risk of viral transmission via touching the surface of used masks is low.

DJ, The study did investigate some flu viruses...other diseases may have a somewhat different outcome. However in lots of AIRBORNE diseases it may be wise ;
-to focus on maximum ventilation (lower viral loads) 
-Use a good mask that fits (cross the cords on the side of the head to make it more fitting !)
-Avoid crowded places/moments if you have alternatives !
-Stay informed !

Governments/politics simply fail to do a good job in public health. "Saving the rich/economy/profits" is the main goal of "politicians/experts for sale"...

So it comes to the indivuduals to make changes !

Masks should become a fashion item ! Fashion designers can make a mouth/nose-mask +  eye protection a fashion item...

"Criminal politicians" making PPE/masks illegal may see a grass roots movement going against their stupidity ....

YES-Vaccines often limit risks ! But how many vaccines does a person need to get ? DJ-I have had SIX CoViD vaccines-still did catch (Long) CoViD ! So I am fed up with the "vaccines only" lies....

We have to see real changes in the way we live; Less air travel (diseases fly around the globe 24/7 for free !)...Less meat consumption-better deals for farmers....(supermarkets/multi nationals now decide on the price)...Less (e)cars !

It looks like a lot of us are "learning the hard way"....