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Uncovering mask benefits: WVU team simulates the spread of COVID-19 droplets in new video

If you need a visual cue to don a face covering, a team of West Virginia University researchers simulated COVID-19 droplets spraying between two mannequin heads in various states – masked and unmasked.

Using blue dye to represent coronavirus droplets, the Center for Inhalation Toxicology in the WVU School of Medicine produced “coughs” discharging from a mannequin’s mouth to see where droplets would land.

If you think coughing into your hand or wearing a mask in the vicinity of an unmasked person is safe enough, see for yourself in this video.

Quote:

“It’s important that the users understand that nothing is 100 percent effective, but rather wearing a mask is a part of a series of behavior changes during the COVID pandemic that we can take that decreases the chance of us contracting COVID from another person.” —Timothy Nurkiewicz, director of the WVU Center for Inhalation Toxicology


Resources:

VIDEO: Tim Nurkiewicz busts myths about masks

WVU team unmasks effective N95 alternatives  

WVU opens new inhalation facility, $1.7 million NIH grant investigates effects of inhaled particles on health

Behind the mask with a WVU doctor: What to wear and whether face coverings should be mandated 

Timothy Nurkiewicz, director of WVU Center for Inhalation Toxicology, profile

VIDEO: Dr. Kathy Moffett explains how masks limit COVID-19 spread

WVU Return to Campus website

Targeted Audience:

  • General public
  • Healthcare providers
  • Educators
  • Students

 -WVU-

js/07/16/20

CONTACT: Jake Stump
Director
WVU Research Communications
304-293-5507; jake.stump@mail.wvu.edu

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