Should I Still Wear a Mask If No One Else Is?

We're all hoping that 2022 will be the year that COVID stops ruining everything.

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By Stephanie Cornwell, Editorial Assistant We're all hoping that 2022 will be the year that COVID stops ruining everything. As Omicron cases continue to surge, it's important to wear a mask, even if businesses aren't requiring them in your area. Today's Top Story How Effective Is Face Mask Against COVID-19 if You're the Only One Wearing It? Mask mandates have evolved since COVID-19 first entered the scene. Recently, New York and California reinstated their mask mandates in response to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant.   In addition to getting vaccinated, experts urge people to continue to wear a mask when indoors or around people. But what if you're the only one wearing one? It's still better than nothing. Since the Omicron variant appears more contagious than previous COVID-19 strains, covering the nose and mouth is one way to help prevent viral particles from entering the body.   While masks are most effective when everyone wears them, it can still offer protection if you're the only one wearing one. Know More Different types of masks have varying levels of effectiveness. The CDC recommends masks with two or more layers of breathable, washable fabric that fully cover the nose and mouth. Double-masking, or wearing a single-use surgical mask underneath a cloth mask, can offer extra protection. Feel Better While Omicron is surging in the U.S., Anthony Fauci, MD, thinks it should hit its peak by the end of January. READ MORE How Did COVID Change Addiction Treatment? During the pandemic, substance abuse has risen in the U.S. One positive trend has been increased education and accessibility surrounding Narcan, a medication that can reverse and overdose caused by opioids. While the government has contributed funds for opioid overdose prevention, experts say there needs to be an investment in addressing the root causes of addiction. READ MORE Why Giving–and Receiving–Is Good for You A recent study shows positive social relationships can reduce stress and inflammation. Since inflammation can be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and cancer, these relationships can improve physical health. This new research differs from previous work as it looks at not only giving, but also receiving support and kindness. The findings show that mutually supportive relationships are especially stress-relieving. READ MORE     In an interview with Verywell, pediatrician Judith Flores, MD, explains how she's upping her mask game these days. I would either double up or wear a good three-ply surgical mask. Judith Flores, MD, Pediatrician and a fellow at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the New York Academy of Medicine.   Keep Reading   ■ New year's Resolutions: How to Get Into the Habit of Saving. The Guardian     ■ No Way to Grow Up. The New York Times     ■ What We Get Wrong About Emotions. The Atlantic More From Verywell Omicron Is Now the Dominant COVID-19 Variant in the U.S. READ MORE Are Potatoes Gluten-Free? READ MORE Op-Ed: Disabled People Feel Left out of U.K. COVID-19 Plans—Again READ MORE   How'd we do? If you have any feedback, send us a note at   feedback@verywell.com.       You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the Verywell Health newsletter. If you wish to unsubscribe, please click here.   A DOTDASH BRAND 28 Liberty Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY, 10005   © 2021 verywellhealth.com - All rights reserved. Privacy Policy