Some thoughts on face masks: the blue passports of our time.

Evidence on face masks is genuinely mixed. Some studies point to the reduction of virus spread, while others point to ppl feeling emboldened to take more risk, which can increase virus spread. Whatever you think, there’s evidence to counter it. Don’t assume it’s black and white.

Regardless of where you fall on 'the science of masks’, let’s be clear about how the Government has used them so far in this pandemic: to be a security blanket for nervous UK residents as society starts to reopen. Let’s look at masks in the context they’re being used.

Gov is betting that mandatory masks in shops will get more people out & about. Given new economic scenarios today, now forecasting we won't properly recover for years, if this policy gets people back to normal activity, mask-sceptics should be ready to change their mind.

Likewise, if this puts people off going back out, mask advocates should also be prepared to shift. With virus prevalence so low in so much of UK now, we must start focusing on tragic effects of this economic downturn. Almost anything we can do to mitigate should be done.

Wearing a mask in a shop to pick up milk is not really a big deal. But we should not ignore the concerns. Do not assume that because you don’t see getting your milk as a social or personal experience, others don’t as well. For some, it’s the only contact they’ll have all day.

We know that mental health has been put through the ringer during lockdown - many have struggled from life being turned upside down. Don’t assume someone’s opposition to face masks is purely political. Putting them on will be hard for some. Their frustrations are valid.

Also - remember the Gov’s reasoning - don’t write-off a slippery slope. As this isn't about (one perspective on) 'the science' (where was this advice at height of pandemic?) it does seem like mandatory masks could be brought in at a whim in other areas of life.

This really concerns me. I am back at the office, comfortable and happy to be here. I can’t think of a better way to *stop* ppl returning to work than to ask them to cover their faces for at least a third of the day. I couldn’t do it. https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/12117050/masks-offices-backlash-delay/