First, this should be considered a rumor and nothing more. Statements like this can endanger front-line medical personnel.
Second, it's probably the worst idea I've heard being tossed about at this stage of the outbreak for a number of reasons (most having to do with American culture). If you think masks are hard to come by now...think toilet paper. Where the hell will our medical personnel get masks if every asshole in America hoards a few hundred in their garage (and they will)?
Third, there's little scientific evidence that wearing masks substantially reduces everyday citizen's risks for this novel virus vs careful sanitation, isolation and safe distancing. The problem is that any measure we take can create a false sense of security and most people then become far more careless with the other components of protection.
Fourth, it is known that the virus can be spread in air both by droplets (of a wide variety of size) and by aerosolization which is extremely dangerous in public places and masks available to the public will not stop it (virus particles are sub-micron). In addition, very few public places have HEPA-rated air filtration in their HVAC systems.
Fifth, few Americans are trained on the proper use and handling of particulate masks and are unaware their design is for short term use, typically being disposed of after one work shift or less. Handling of them reduces effectiveness.
My strong suspicion is that Trump's greed-driven people are about to pump this as a magic solution to enable millions of people to go back to work. The net result is that thousand more will die.
I'm expressing these opinions relative to the American public as a whole, including the rich and the poor and the smart and not-so-smart from all regions.
Just My Humble Opinion........
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