By Isabella Ligor, Staff Reporter
As COVID-19 cases rise around the world with over 88,000 new cases in the United States this week alone, the reason for wearing a face mask is often neglected. We have to normalize wearing a mask and help those who don’t abide by the mandates to presently perceive why this virus is so serious.
Studies published by Public Health Affairs show that 1,168,076 people have died from COVID-19. According to some, that isn’t enough of a reason to wear a face mask or even consider it. The people who chose not to wear a face mask are ridiculous because they are endangering themselves and others around them.
Wearing a mask helps prevent the spread of COVID-19 and infecting others. Face masks block your coughs, sneezes, and the impulse to touch your face. They remind you that you have that protective barrier as well as reminding you to have more caution when you're out in the public.
“Masks should be worn when going out.” Kennedy senior Rebecca Perez said. “People complain about not being able to go out and stuff but wont wear masks to stop the spread which i think is very ignorant.”
Wearing a mask isn't just a fashion statement. However, it can benefit your daily life in so many different ways that people might not even consider. Don’t feel like putting makeup on? Nobody will be able to tell because you have your mask on. Forgot to shave? It’s okay, you'll have your mask on.
However, some politicians argue that citizens don’t need to wear masks. Certainly a president who is more focused on how his hair looks thinks wearing one looks bad or makes him look weak.
“I just don't want to wear one myself,” President Donald Trump said in early April when asked if he would wear a mask. “It’s a recommendation; they recommend it. I’m feeling good. I just don't want to be doing… I think wearing a face mask as I greet presidents, prime ministers, dictators, kings, queens, I don't know. Somehow, I don't see it for myself. I just- I just don't.”
By you wearing your mask, you are showing and proving to other people that there is a real threat out there. When you see enough people doing it and enforcing the rule, it becomes a habit to wear masks and it will feel awkward and very uncomfortable without it.
So, don’t be a Karen. Wear your mask!
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