Masks mandates are going out the window across the country, but should you still wear one?
For more, stream KCBS Radio now.
Dr. Robert Siegel, a professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Stanford University, told KCBS Radio's "Ask An Expert" he believes the lift of the mask mandate was not done with public health in mind.
"I don't think that the overturning of the mask mandate was based on public health considerations, I think it was considerations of whether or not they should be forcing people to wear masks," he said.
For Siegel, he plans to stay masked up for the foreseeable future. "Despite the mask mandate, nothing has really changed in terms of the actual virus, so masks will still help protect you," he explained.
Siegel said he thinks the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention wants the mask mandate reinstated, but there are political issues surrounding the topic. "They would like to see the mask mandate reinstated," he said. However, "if they reinstate the mask mandate and it gets thrown out, it will actually undermine public health efforts even more."
But, that should not be a concern of the CDC, he added. "The CDC should be making pronouncements about public health, but I think that's one of the considerations for the Biden administration."
If someone finds themselves on transit surrounded by unmasked travelers, Siegel said wearing a mask will still help protect from coronavirus.
"It would be much better if both people were wearing masks, but the mask will still help protect you, particularly if you've already been vaccinated," he reassured. "It will decrease your exposure."
LISTEN to KCBS Radio
FAVORITE KCBS Radio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Related
