New study indicates masks prevent spread of virus, N.Y. officials say there still isn't enough data

Wearing a face mask can significantly reduce the transmission of coronavirus by preventing the spread of respiratory droplets and aerosols, according to a study published today in Nature Medicine by researchers at the University of Hong Kong. 

“Our results indicate that surgical face masks could prevent transmission of human coronaviruses and influenza viruses from symptomatic individuals,” reads the study.

The findings of the study indicate that surgical masks can mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus by reducing the “onward transmission” of the illness.The study did not test the effectiveness of masks worn by those who are not infected.

Amid the outbreak of the global coronavirus pandemic, mask wearing for the general population has been a hotly contested subject of debate.

The New York City Department of Health is now advising New Yorkers to wear a face covering when going outside. According to an update from Mayor Bill de Blasio’s office, New Yorkers can fashion a face covering using at-home materials like scarves, bandanas, and other common cloths.

Meanwhile, during his Friday morning briefing, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo suggested that wearing a mask “couldn’t hurt.” Though New York Health Commissioner Howard Zucker said there is currently “no data to suggest” whether wearing such a mask should be mandatory.