All articles tagged with #face masks
A federal judge heard the Trump administration’s bid to block California’s law banning most law enforcement officers, including ICE, from wearing masks on duty. The judge pressed how agents would operate without masks and questioned the state’s exemption for California peace officers, signaling skepticism about the policy’s practicality and constitutionality as a ruling could come soon.
A group of experts has urged the WHO to replace surgical masks with respirator-level masks for healthcare workers, citing inadequate protection from surgical masks against airborne pathogens like COVID-19, and emphasizing that respirators offer significantly better filtration and safety.
Research indicates that disposable face masks used during the COVID-19 pandemic are degrading and releasing microplastics and harmful chemicals like endocrine disruptors into the environment, posing risks to human and animal health and highlighting the need for more sustainable mask solutions.
The article highlights top Korean beauty product deals available during Prime Day, including sunscreens, cleansers, serums, moisturizers, face masks, and lip treatments, curated by a Korean beauty expert, with significant discounts on popular brands.
As the U.S. marks the four-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health professionals reflect on the long-term impacts, including the detrimental effects of loneliness, increased focus on emotional well-being, the rise of telemedicine as a permanent fixture in healthcare, the effectiveness of masks in reducing the spread of airborne pathogens, and the positive impact of pursuing hobbies. Additionally, improved hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, have become ingrained habits.
A federal appeals court rejected claims that not wearing a mask during the COVID-19 outbreak is protected speech under the First Amendment, stating that refusing to wear a mask during a public health emergency does not constitute free speech. The ruling came in response to lawsuits against officials in New Jersey, where individuals were allegedly retaliated against for not wearing masks at school board meetings. The court found that disobeying a masking requirement is not a form of protected speech and that there is no First Amendment right to refuse to wear a protective mask during a recognized public health emergency.
Trinidad and Tobago's Health Minister, Terrence Deyalsingh, has issued a warning about the increased Covid-19 cases and deaths locally, as well as the onset of influenza season, especially with Carnival 2024 approaching. He encourages the use of face masks, particularly among vulnerable groups, and emphasizes the importance of vaccination, especially for at-risk individuals. The ministry has launched mass vaccination sites for influenza and is urging people to seek immunization to protect themselves from severe illness and potential fatalities.
Johns Hopkins Medicine in Maryland has reinstated mandatory face mask requirements for patients, visitors, and employees at all its locations, regardless of vaccination status, due to high rates of viral respiratory illnesses. This decision follows guidance from the Maryland Department of Health and is expected to be in effect on a short-term basis. Other medical facilities, including LifeBridge Health, are likely to implement similar requirements in response to a post-holiday spike in respiratory illnesses and hospitalizations.
Spain reintroduces mandatory face masks in health facilities nationwide from 10 January due to a spike in flu and COVID-19 cases, with the Health Ministry giving local governments 48 hours to send over their proposals. Several Spanish regions, including Andalucia, opposed the mandate, while others suggested expanding it to pharmacies. Flu cases spiked 75% in the last week of 2023, leading to a 60% increase in hospitalizations.
Spain reintroduces mandatory face masks in health facilities nationwide from 10 January due to a spike in COVID-19 and flu cases, with the Health Ministry giving local governments 48 hours to send over their proposals. Several Spanish regions, including Andalucia, opposed the mandate, while others suggested expanding it to pharmacies. Flu cases spiked 75% in the last week of 2023, leading to a 60% increase in hospitalizations, prompting the reintroduction of mask mandates in health facilities across the country.
Two Maryland hospital groups, LifeBridge Health and the University of Maryland Medical System, are reinstating face mask requirements in all patient-care areas, including doctor's offices, in response to a post-holiday spike in respiratory illnesses and hospitalizations. The COO of LifeBridge Health, Leslie Simmons, expects other medical facilities to follow suit, and the mask requirement is likely to continue until at least the end of January. This move comes as multiple City Council staff members in Baltimore City have tested positive for COVID-19, prompting the council president to encourage staff and guests to wear face masks in his office and at council chamber meetings.
Face mask mandates are expanding in Pennsylvania and other states in response to a surge in flu and COVID-19 cases. Philadelphia-based Penn Medicine and other healthcare systems have revised their masking requirements, with specific rules for patients, visitors, and staff in various areas. Similar policies have been implemented by health systems in the Philadelphia region and elsewhere in Pennsylvania. Additionally, several hospitals in other states have reinstated mask mandates. Studies have shown that face masks can effectively reduce the spread of COVID-19.
As the holiday travel season approaches, the question of whether to wear face masks still lingers. According to Dr. John Brownstein, an epidemiologist, the decision depends on various factors. While masks can effectively reduce the risk of spreading respiratory pathogens, their necessity varies among different groups, with older age groups and those with pre-existing conditions being more vulnerable. Location also plays a role, with crowded or poorly ventilated areas requiring mask usage. Dr. Brownstein emphasizes that masks, along with vaccines, hand washing, and staying home when sick, are essential tools to combat infectious diseases and ensure a healthy holiday season.
Doctors share their strategies for coping with the holiday season. They emphasize the importance of not overcommitting to social activities, prioritizing rest and quality time with loved ones. Regular physical activity is recommended to combat the negative effects of sedentary behavior during the holidays. Traveling with a high-quality face mask is advised, especially when visiting at-risk relatives. Managing stress is crucial, as it can impact heart health. Strategies include creating a schedule, limiting exposure to stress triggers, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining good sleep habits.
The Karnataka government has made it mandatory for individuals above 60 years of age and those with comorbidities to wear face masks amid the growing scare of the Covid-19 subvariant JN.1 in neighboring Kerala. The state has increased testing and surveillance in border districts with Kerala, but there are currently no restrictions on movement or gatherings. The JN.1 variant, also known as Omicron subvariant BA.2.86 or Pirola, has mild symptoms and high transmissibility. India has recorded 260 new Covid-19 infections, with the total case tally at 4.50 crore.