Disney World Reopening Update: June Cancellations, Paid Sick Time & Mandatory Masks
It’s time for yet another Walt Disney World closure & reopening news roundup. This time we’ll cover a wide range of topics, from June reservation cancellations to specific health safety measures agreed upon by WDW and its unions to sporting events and more.
The good news is that some of this is a change of pace. It includes what’s up with the 2021 Walt Disney World Marathon, the potential for future major events at the ESPN Wide World of Sports, and more. There have been a lot of rumors about the latter, and we’re finally going to discuss those since they’re fascinating and fun.
The bad news is that there’s more same old, same old. This includes Walt Disney World starting to cancel June reservations and more discussion of health safety measures. We had hoped to limit this type of roundup post to once per week, but a lot has happened in the last couple of days (and it wouldn’t surprise us if Disney does another late Friday news dump given that Disney Springs reopens next week).
Let’s starting with sports. Per the Athletic, Major League Soccer’s plan to return to play is coming together, with the league having recently distributed a proposal to plays and clubs that would entail a summer tournament in Florida involving all 26 teams. The proposal calls for players and coaches to head to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World to begin training on June 1, with the tournament set to begin on June 22, 2020.
This is far from the first rumor about a professional sports league playing out its season at the “bubble complex” of ESPN Wide World of Sports. What seemingly started as a theoretical idea for the NBA by one sports journalist is now something being reported by Disney-owned ESPN and has been greeted with enthusiasm by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Personally, I’ve found this saga incredibly fascinating, but I’m not sure how much Walt Disney World fans care about this (if there is interest, let me know–I’ll consider covering it).
It’s clearly a popular time for sporting events at Walt Disney World, as next year’s Marathon Weekend events (set for January 6-10, 2021) sold out in record time. Pre-registration took place last week for Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents and many on social media reported difficulties booking because options were gone so quickly.
This week, general public registration began for the 2021 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend and all of the events similarly sold out in under 30 minutes. Much less, in some cases. In years past, registration for runDisney events moved fast…but I don’t recall anything like this recently as prices have skyrocketed and popularity has waned.
There are a couple of possibilities here. One is a mix of pent-up demand and this hitting the sweet spot of exactly what people are daydreaming of doing. While stuck sitting at home, the prospect of participating in an outdoor recreational activities at Walt Disney World sounds delightful.
The other is that runDisney significantly capped attendance as a preliminary measure, as they’re unsure what runner-spacing requirements might be necessary in January if social distancing requirements are ongoing (which seems like a safe bet). It’s easier to cap numbers now and release more bibs later than to deal with the backlash of arbitrarily cancelling some registrations. (I’d bet on this possibility, but I’m perhaps overly bearish on the true extent of pent-up demand.)
Next, the first week of June 2020 is now officially out of the question for a reopening of Walt Disney World’s parks and resorts. Disney has removed theme park hours between now and June 6, 2020. Additionally, cancellation emails have gone out to those with vacation arrival dates between June 1 and 6, 2020.
Week by week rolling cancellations has been Walt Disney World’s standard practice (save for Disney Vacation Club reservations, in our experience). As with all email notifications from Walt Disney World, it’s entirely possible not everyone impacted received one–either check your spam folder or attempt to view the reservation directly on My Disney Experience if you didn’t get an email but should have.
This squares with Walt Disney World Delaying New Reservations Until July 1, 2020. At this point, it seems like any of the parks or resorts being operational in late June is a long shot. July is more reasonable, but potentially still overly optimistic in light of Disney’s recent comments at the Orange County Task Force meeting.
One big blow here is that Walt Disney World ended its Free Dining Summer Recovery Deal early. Many guests have already learned this while attempting to rebook, which is frustrating (to put it mildly). We speculate as to the reasons for this in our update to that post, but the bottom line is that we remain optimistic about future discounts once Disney has solidified operational plans and logistics. While there is pent-up demand, there are also lags between booking and traveling, plus economic realities. (As we’ve said before, locals aren’t booking hotel rooms in huge numbers.)
Regardless of when the parks and resorts do reopen, we should have an idea a couple weeks in advance. Supplies will need to be ordered, infrastructure adjusted, and Cast Members will be called back to work (you can’t notify tens of thousands of people of something and have it remain a closely-guarded secret).
Suffice to say, there’s a lot of groundwork that will need to be laid, it’s not like flipping a switch. On the plus side, that’s starting to happen with Walt Disney World and its unions…
Last up is the agreements between Walt Disney World and its unions, which offer a sneak peek into the health safety measures and policies that will be implemented once things start to reopen. Most of this is unsurprising given the recent comments of both Chairman Bob Iger and CEO Bob Chapek, but those were crouched with “likely” and other ambiguity.
A statement from Unite Here Central Florida (corroborated to the Orlando Sentinel by another union), offers new details and confirms what was previously floated by those executives. First, Cast Members who get sick will receive guaranteed paid time-off to quarantine. (We would expect this to be extended to non-union Cast Members, as well.)
Second, Cast Members will be trained on how to conduct self-assessments of symptoms at home–anyone with symptoms can call in sick without violating the attendance policy. Walt Disney World will provide a thermometer to any Cast Members who request one. In addition to multiple levels of health safety training before returning to work, Cast Members will be involved with monthly safety meetings to discuss the evolving situation.
Third, safeguards will include social distancing practices, installation of plastic barriers at all cash registers, touchless transactions at cash registers, high traffic areas will be cleaned more regularly, and additional hand-washing stations are being installed, and guest temperature checks.
Finally, three washable face masks will be provided to each Cast Member. These will be required for all guests and Cast Members. Most of these practices are consistent with what was previously intimated by Disney officials, and are consistent with the policies implemented by Universal for its reopening of CityWalk.
With this information leaking out to the press via unions, we would expect an official announcement directly from Walt Disney World after the close of business today. Such an announcement, if one happens, will likely only address Disney Springs at this point. However, it’s our understanding that the agreement reached with the union covers everywhere at Walt Disney World. If there’s anything new to report in terms of safety procedures at the theme parks or resorts, we’ll follow-up.
These formal agreements between Disney and unions are significant as they set standards for Cast Member safety that cannot be unilaterally undone or changed. That should put to rest the back and forth arguments among Walt Disney World fans about all of this. (Naivety or wishful thinking on my part? Perhaps!) This is going to be the temporary abnormal for some period of time while things get back to the long-term normal at Walt Disney World.
You now can vote with your wallet one way or the other, or perhaps contact Walt Disney World directly (although that is an exercise in futility at this point). Quarreling with fellow fans about this in the comments section of a Disney blog is now about as effective as shaking your fist at a cloud. If you’re inclined to do the former, please do the latter instead. (Just be sure to observe proper social distancing practices if you go outside to shake your fist!) All jokes aside, we appreciate everyone who has been reading these updates, and especially those who have shared their opinions–whatever those might be–in a respectful and courteous manner. By and large, you’ve all been great!
Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews. To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!
YOUR THOUGHTS
What do you think of this news? Did you receive a June cancellation email from Walt Disney World? Successfully register for the 2021 Marathon Weekend races? Intrigued by pro leagues potentially coming to ESPN Wide World of Sports? We welcome a variety of viewpoints here, and will never delete anything on opinion alone. However, we will not tolerate insults, arguing, or politically-charged comments. Don’t ruin a 95% fine comment with an unnecessary cheap shot–that 5% will get it deleted. Please do not incessantly harp on the same point. Say your piece and move along.
Yet another doctor who says that disposable surgical masks and cloth masks are useless and potentially harmful when worn all day.
But N95s are not. Problem is that. Properly worn, unless you are young and in your prime, the demographic that doesn’t really need them, they are not conducive to all day wear. I’m trained in their proper use and have used them in the past in my EMS and paramedic and ER hours but in no way could I wear one for hours outdoors in the summer anywhere, much less Florida.
The masks and bandanas being worn by most people today are largely a feel good piece of window dressing. While they will stop or mitigate sputum and projectile particles spread by coughing or sneezing, they won’t do jack for airborne viral particles. Notice, BTW, that cases in the hard lockdown states are generally higher than those that have relaxed the rules. Actual data trumps panicked hypotheticals.
On a side note: What is your experience and opinion of Disney Vacation Club? Is DVC worthwhile? When I looked into it I must say that it seemed WAY overpriced.
@Frank
Please don’t join. We don’t need any more members. It used to be easy to get reservations when you wanted to go. Now, due to various Disney precipitated changes, third party “Point Renting” and overselling, it’s just another race to call and reserve as soon as your window opens or you’re SOL. Too many members. Not enough rooms.
@Jack. Thanks for the advice.
@Frank
If Disney would somehow wave a magic wand and get things back as they were ten to fifteen years ago I’d unreservedly recommend DVC, especially if you go more than once a year and / or go with lots of kids and / or grandchildren. As it is now though, I can’t recommend it unless you can consistently plan eleven months ahead.
Good grief, give the mask debate a rest. Disney is going to do what it deems necessary, and whether people agree or disagree with that decision–for whatever reason–they have two choices: go or stay home.
Agree. I am looking forward to going to Disney at 30% full and wearing a mask.
@ Jack. I define a mask as any face covering, including the cloth ones Disney is selling. I totally agree that as long as antisocial distancing measures are in place, any mask is pointless, especially outdoors. M95 masks are the only ones that provide protection against viruses. But you cannot wear them too long due to the lack of fresh air and depleted oxygen intake. And disposable surgical masks and homemade cloth mask are not effective in blocking virus particles. At least that’s what Health Canada says.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/masks-coronavirus-1.5507186
The mask debate is not going away. This is what Disney has become known for now! People will be paying exorbitant amounts of money to wear their masks, so they need to feel good about it.
@Frank no more than I look forward to going mask free with 30% capacity. See how that works?
Just watched a video of Disney springs opening, the mask thing I have to say in my opinion is a total waste of time.
The amount of people that keep touching theirs then when they take them off for a photo or to eat and never wash their hands after so potentially passing on the virus that way.
The mask will only work if never touched or when touched to wash your hands, also to change your mask if it gets damp.
These things will never happen, why can’t Disney see this that it will not work!
Because it isn’t up to Disney to make it work. People know the rules and need to be responsible for their behavior. Nowhere did I read that Disney had instituted a “Moron Patrol.” If you don’t want to be subjected to the normal proclivities of humanity, don’t go anywhere there are others.
I don’t think the point is that is up to Disney to make the mask rule work. Tracey’s point is the mask rule simply doesn’t work because people are constantly touching their faces to adjust the mask or to remove it. They are touching their faces a heck of lot more than they normally would as a result of wearing the mask, thus negating any positive effects the mask might have and putting the wearer at greater risk of infection.
Jack,
Do you feel better calling people names? Just b/c someone’s opinion is different that yours, doesn’t make them a moron. Just stop. Bullying is rude and intolerable.
@Jamie
So what is the socially acceptable term for a person who knowingly flaunts rules meant to keep people safe after agreeing to same by entering the venue?
Well morons isn’t it. How about worry about yourself. Have fun at Disney and don’t catch covid19!
Scott,
Good point.
Agreed correct mask procedure is: Don’t touch your mask. When you do wash your hands, because assume it’s contaminated. Second, if you remove your mask to eat, you should have a replacement mask with you in a clean ziplock. The dirty mask should be disposed of or if washable, placed in a ziplock bag separate from the bag with the clean masks. You should make sure after handling the dirty masks to wash your hands for 20-30 secs or if not near a bathroom hand-san thoroughly before handling the clean mask.
@MzFitz
You are absolutely correct but people don’t even wear the masks they wear correctly or use effective masks. You actually expect them to observe these protocols?
Tracy and Scott, you are ABSOLUTELY correct! I am a health care worker for 28 years and you are NOT supposed to touch your mask where it covers your mouth and nose. You are supposed to take them off by the ear loops. The whole face covering requirement is ridiculous and useless
@Morgan
Isn’t it amazing that these days most people have at their fingertips the knowledge of the world but neglect to use it? All of the salient protocols are on YouTube. One has only to look.
@Jack
People just need to be educated on the proper way to wear and use a mask.
@MFitz
I and others have tried. We have also pointed out that this knowledge and much more about sanitary protocols exists on YouTube. I guess people are too busy to take the time to look and learn. I’d normally say that they prefer to remain “willfully ignorant” but that characterization might be thought of as “bullying” so I’ll just think it instead.
Even with being educated about proper mask protocol, those protocols will go out the window a couple of hours into an all day outing at Disney World. They are requiring children three years and up to wear them. If there are any children at all that are able to follow all the safety protocols, I would be extremely surprised. The vast majority of adults won’t be able to either. Masks are only meant to be worn a short period of time, normally in a clinical setting. Not outdoors at theme park where they will be wearing them for hours on end.
It’s a matter of people acting like adults and taking responsibility. Wearing a mask and knowing how to take one on/off is not rocket science.
What I see here are many lame excuses as to WHY people don’t want to comply.
Keep in mind that this is out of consideration for your fellow humans. Stop being so selfish…
@Frank. I do not think it is selfish to suggest that masks are impractical (possible unhealthy) in a theme park setting. Also, there is plenty of evidence that extended wearing of masks can have immunosuppressive effect and can put the wearer at risk of infection.
@ST
You have to understand, what you and i don’t define as a mask others do. Most people think of a bandanna as a “mask,” or “face covering.” When I think mask I think N95 and beyond because by training I know that’s what works.
Anyway, per published data, I’m not too concerned about virus spread outdoors in relatively open spaces, and, in case anyone missed it, the C.D.C. just revamped their warning about virus transmission via surface contact—–downward.
We’re learning.
@ Jack. I define a mask as any face covering, including the cloth ones Disney is selling. I totally agree that as long as antisocial distancing measures are in place, any mask is pointless, especially outdoors. M95 masks are the only ones that provide protection against viruses. But you cannot wear them too long due to the lack of fresh air and depleted oxygen intake. And disposable surgical masks and homemade cloth mask are not effective in blocking virus particles. At least that’s what Health Canada says.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/masks-coronavirus-1.5507186
Thank you @scott that was exactly what I meant
I’m sure there are many smart people at Disney trying to figure out the best way to open up. They know full well that the mask issue is very divisive. Perhaps that is exactly what they want. They need a period of “soft opening” with limited crowds to get things up to speed. Requiring masks will surely help limit the crowds in the beginning because most people would not want to go to Disney World with that rule in place. Those same smart people at Disney must also know that wearing a mask at a theme park ALL DAY LONG is impractical (perhaps even dangerous) and only gives the illusion of safety against this virus. There will come a point in time that this mask requirement will be lifted. They need everyone to come back to Disney parks if they ever hope to make money again. After all, that’s what Disney is in business for…to make money. I just hope things return to normal soon. I miss Disney World.
Actually, I’ve thought about that too. It will deter many people and maybe that is what they want at this point. To keep the crowds low initially due to this issue. I hope you are right and it’s lifted soon. I really do want to go back
@Jamie
That does not address the problem. The poster specifically mentioned people who openly disregarded the rules and made them feel uncomfortable by so doing. Maybe they even caused them to cut short their outing. Given the publicity about spreading the virus and given the work Disney has put into trying to raise people’s comfort levels, these people had to know what their actions would precipitate yet they did it anyway for their own comfort.
Personally, I think that requiring masks in open areas where antisocial distancing is attainable is overkill but I will and do wear one if only to make others comfortable.
I do not consider calling someone out for making others physically uncomfortable as bullying. Like the late, great George Carlin I’m not into euphemisms. I stand by what I said.
Again, Jack. Have fun at Disney. Good luck not getting sick and getting in fights with folks who disagree with you.
@Jamie
I find it interesting that you consider a debate a “fight.”
I certainly will have fun at Disney. Always do. And you have yourself a sparkling Disney Day!
I dislike masks. I have to wear one all day at my job. We are in the low 80s temp-wise right now, and they are miserable! I have a trip booked for August 1st to WDW. If they’re mandatory, I will comply, but I really have my doubts that people will be able to keep them on all day in the Florida heat and humidity.
Stephanie – If masks are still required on August 1, I recommend you save your money and come another time. Our summers are brutal here. There is a reason why Disney sells spray bottles with fans everywhere on its property. I have to use these bottles to keep from passing out, especially when the sun beats off the concrete. Other major attractions in Central Florida have already said that they are opening up without the mask requirement. Some employees who work closely with customers will be wearing extra protection for themselves. Masks are going to be offered to customers on a voluntary basis. Disney will be selling special one-day tickets when they open. People will be paying a lot of money for less of the Disney experience. Disney will have to relax the mask requirement once they stop selling the special tickets and open to the general public.
I still can’t believe people are arguing about the masks. Really?? Let it go already! It’s Disney’s safety protocol. They are a private company. On the new blog there is an entire preamble regarding safety for Disney Springs, which will more than likely be carried over to parks. If you are sick, don’t come here. If you have been around sick people, don’t go. If you’re worried, stay home. Just like a flu vaccine, if and when they develop a vaccine it will not be 100% infallible. This virus like many, will continue to mutate. It doesn’t mean everyone will get it.
For those who think Masks are no big deal and are criticizing others to “let it go”- please don’t kid yourself thinking it no big deal to wear it all day long while at a park or even Florida alone.. It will be a popcorn grabber to watch this in next 6 months how this this pans out.. Good luck, folks!
Sue, you are correct. It will be interesting to see how many of the pro-maskers want to rip theirs off after the first 30 minutes in 98 degree July/Aug with heat index above 110, which is a typical Orlando summer day. I know, because I’m a lifelong resident of central Florida. Expect to see a lot of maskers getting sick from the heat, made worse breathing in their own mask-trapped hot breath, with limited oxygen passing through a sweaty mask. Florida summer heat+humidity is serious business, folks. It is not a game and NOT to be taken lightly. Masks outdoors in FL summer are pure insanity. Wear them at your own peril.
Some lessons in life cannot be taught. They can only be learned.
Yes, not everyone will get the virus. The point people are making is that the mask requirement for guests will have to go away, or Disney cannot fully reopen. The masks are useless. This requirement needs to go away sooner rather than later.
tom, i’d love to read a disney viewpoint of the potential nba at disney proposal. i’ve read a number of sports writer viewpoints on the subject.
@Carolyn ONE MILLION % AGREED!
@ Tom Bricker – this is a delay, but I just wanted to say, I do really love that you refer to it as the “temporary ABnormal”. Thank you for saying that, because I am tired of seeing this being referred to as the “new normal” – I am like sick, stomp my foot like a little kid throwing a temper tantrum sick of seeing that, none of this is normal! (I mean this tantrum semi-kidding, but I mean really, lets face it, regardless of which side of the argument any of us are on, we all love Disney & we’re all over this & really just want to hit rewind & get back to our happy place with the parks the way they used to be!) So thank you Tom for saying “temporary abnormal”, thank you for keeping us up to date with great info & providing us all a place to voice our opinions!
Masks are the future. Contrary to the ‘medical professionals’ posting here who claim that masks don’t work the overwhelming consensus from real medical experts is that they DO work and have prevented the spread of the virus with further death and destruction.
Will it be fun wearing a mask at Disney? No…but it’s the policy for the foreseeable future until a vaccine is developed.
I support wearing masks and am doing my part for the greater good. Do I want to go to Disney and pay those outrageous prices while wearing a mask? No.
Science also says that masks, when worn for prolonged periods of time, are immunosuppressive. Masks do work, but not for extended periods of time. Like at a theme park.
@Frank
The right masks work if worn properly. The bulk of those being used today are mostly feel good window dressing. And nobody is going to wear an N95 for hours in Florida heat so the discussion is pretty much moot.
Masks are NOT “the future”!
The well-known hubris of mysterious and irrational ‘Disney Logic’ is not lost on the endurance events of RunDisney. Because Disney and their management/logistic partner, (who obviously drank the WDW Koolaid), who continue to support and maintain Disney arrogance.. there have NEVER been ANY LEGITIMATE answers or explanations to serious issues, changes – that resulted in actual run registration, expo, placement or participant obstacle, or concerns over the 15 years I have traveled across the country to compete in RunDisney Events. The increased costs notwithstanding, the operational quality level of the marathons as an actual fitness event has declined excessively with no answers, insights or explanations provided. With the constant false rhetoric of ‘the safety of the runners comes first and foremost’, the event has seen to provide premium and unearned upgrades, not to mention elite financially-secured early registration slots to people who spend Disney Dollars on run clubs and other non-race related purchase options. Hence the early sell-out of registration opportunities, unethically subjecting loyal participants a chance to continue in their historic and lengthy RunDisey event participation records and achievements.
I suspect a big part of the ridiculously rapidly unavailable race registration this year was no doubt caused by (secretly) lowered race capacity limits – which RunDisney has never revealed or explained, BUT also because too many non-fitness/running related groups, who’s membership is based on spending more money with Disney…are not only getting early registration, but getting unearned advanced corral placement at the actual race. This is not only a serious safety hazard and enjoyment obstacle to true athletes who come to participate and compete in the fitness event and not primarily the on-course character photo opportunities, as unqualified runners in corrals substantially above their pace abilities(originally primarily charity bids and unknown perk recipients- and now +++?) is a serious safety issue to runners who have to negotiate their non running etiquette obstacles in the early stages of an endurance event!
If RunDisney, and it’s logistical partners wish to keep the marathon events an attractive fitness/running event, they are going to have to pay more attention to the runners and less on WDW and logistical/management partners profit margins. Prices are too high and interest is waning due to the distraction from an actual endurance event fitness focus…but since Disney will not release their capacity decisions/logic, limits and inappropriate exceptions, they can still claim their rapidly sold-out event registration fiasco as evidence of increasing or maintaining popularity!! Unprofessional! ..at best ;(
Was anyone wondering how social distancing on rides will affect the lines? Also, wiping and sanitizing frequently-touched surfaces between each ride vehicle use? It would slow the lines quite a bit. As much as I dislike having to wear a mask all the time, right after the parks reopen the crowds are bound to be lower. They will be reducing capacity too. In theory, sounds really nice, low crowds, shorter lines. Airlines are offering really good fares. But with all the new measures, even shorter lines might take hours, since they will be sitting people apart and running the rides half-empty. And waiting in those lines, in masks, wearing them in the heat. Probably not worth it. Unless they come up with some kind of ingenious past pass system for each attraction that is open. But then instead of the people standing in lines, they will be crowding park’s other open spaces. But we are supposed to be 6ft apart at least. Don’t know how it’s all going to work. Disney management for sure has their work cut out for them!
I also wonder who the social distancing will work when the rain/lighting start. Everyone will end up huddling in the nearest cover to escape it. Social distancing will go out the window at that point. You can’t expect people to stand outside in those crazy thunderstorms that happen on a daily basis in Florida during the summer.
The thing about this virus is that it probably isn’t going to go away anytime soon, if ever, no more than the flu virus . We will learn to live with it in a controlled way through vaccines and treatments just like we do with the flu, is my guess. As far as masks go, think about going out on a frosty morning and seeing your breath in the air. Now think about seeing everyone else’s breath and pretending each one of those droplets you see COULD have covid19. If they have a mask on AND you have a mask on, the virus is more contained. Not 100%, but at least somewhat. If given a choice between being in a crowded room with no one wearing a mask, and a room with everyone wearing a mask, I would definitely choose the latter. Hope this helps.
I am OK with mask in an enclosed space or in situations when social distancing is not possible. Inside air-conditioned spaces. But not all the time, while walking outdoors throughout the park. Especially during summer and early fall in FL heat and humidity are brutal. Any minimal “containment” benefit will be zeroed out because the mask will get sweaty and damp. And become a breeding ground for bacteria that people will be inhaling and rubbing into their face.
this is a great, sound analogy, thank you.
Going back to the mask/no mask debate – sorry, those tired of it please ignore this comment. I am really interested: if in Asia masks are commonplace and everyone wears them, WHY were they not able to CONTAIN this virus? They wear masks, even their young children 18-24 months apparently do, and yet the disease spread quickly over there. If masks were that effective, why did it not help?
My wife and I are both medical professionals and we won’t be wearing masks. We are Disney freaks (my wife and I have celebrated several anniversaries there in addition to our many trips with our children), but we will not return to the parks until that restriction is lifted. The masks were never intended for all day use. Medical professionals have difficulty using them appropriately, and it’s plain to see the misuse is worse amongst the general population. Additionally, a person using a mask touches their face more often than one not wearing a mask, increasing risk. The mask may capture and allow pathogens to persist and multiply in that environment very close to your respiratory tract, which may actually increase the risk of infection. I practiced in Japan for two years and know that they have a much lower vaccination rate, which may be a contributing factor, but you’re right… their is certainly no medical evidence that wearing of masks reduces the infection rate. Most importantly, our immune systems are dependent on exposure/challenge. The current attempt at “sterility” is not only ridiculous it may actually be weakening our immune systems.
1. Because they are ineffective for all day wear
2. That’s not the reason they wear them. Its because of the air pollution
While I think you bring up a good point, I think that instead of proving masks inefficiency, it actually shows that masks alone aren’t going to slow the spread. There are obviously other factors to consider, including social distancing, proper & effective hand washing (or sanitizing when washing isn’t available/practical), etc. Additionally, it would be interesting to see if the commonly used “pollution barrier” style masks that are worn in Asian countries like China are any form of transmission barrier. Traditionally these are designed to protect the wearer from pollution in the air, not necessarily prevent the transmission of anything the wearer may be carrying. If the person’s mask was to come into contact with the virus & then the person removed the mask with their hands & went about their day at home without washing their hands immediately after, then it’s essentially like they never wore the mask at all as far as the virus is concerned.
History & science have shown us time & time again that the best way to prevent the spread of a disease/illness is to isolate the infected, quarantine anyone who’s been in close contact with them, & restrict the movement of the disease by instituting lock-downs. These are the “non-pharmaceutical methods” that basically buy us time. While sanitizing, developing effective anti-viral drug treatments, & creating a vaccine that can be widely distributed are all pharmaceutical methods that take time.
Exactly! Remember when it first got here?The cdc said masks were useless. Now, they’ve done a 180 on it. Do you wear a mask for weeks on end after you recover from the flu? Of course not…. and yes, people who get the flu vaccine can still get the flu so……when common sense prevails, we will be back. Hope that is soon.