Masks instead of quarantine?

[EmmaStone]

Since masks are now pretty widespread, do you think quarantine could be reduced if you wear a mask in the presence of other people? It seems a mixed message that you are protecting other people from your own potential symptoms by wearing one, yet those travelling back from certain countries still have to quarantine in their own homes and dare not step foot outside their front doors.

Seems another example of confused messaging to me?

People don't wear the masks properly or wash hands thoroughly

Because masks reduce risk, they don’t eliminate it.

Quarantining, if you come back from somewhere higher risk eliminates the risk of passing it on to others.

@Remmy123

People don't wear the masks properly or wash hands thoroughly

Being devil's advocate: then why are we all wearing them if they don't prevent spread?

Without being a dick, I do kind of get it, masks reduce risk, and probably give people a certain amount of comfort. But keeping people indoors because they might have been mysteriously exposed seems utterly draconian, and I think does raise some basic rights issues.

I'm currently quarantining after what I consider to be a very low risk holiday - drive to a private house, nearest neighbour a mile away, masks worn on the very odd occasion other people are present (inside and outside). I'm sticking to the rules, because I'm that kind of a person, but I definitely was more distanced from people while on holiday than I am when at home, where (when not quarantined) we were visiting friends and family, eating out regularly etc etc.

I personally think I could take some sensible precautions, and still be able to go for walks or runs in my very rural area, briefly pop to a shop for necessities if wearing a mask. Basically a heightened version of early lockdown. But with very low risk to anyone else.

What about the risk from flights?

Im all for quarantine. I wish it was enforced more rigidly.

@EmmaStone what part of the word ‘reduce’ is difficult for you?

You are less likely to catch it from someone in a mask, but not as unlikely as if they quarantine.

We can’t quarantine everyone, it’s not practical. It would be stupid to just ignore measures that reduce spread. I don’t get what part of this you’re having trouble with?