Mask-wearing is the single most effective way to tackle Covid, reducing its incidence by 53 per cent, as the first global study of its kind shows.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of non-pharmaceutical interventions have found that mask-wearing, social distancing and hand-washing are all effective at curbing Covid-19 infections. The results highlight the need to continue practising all Covid safety measures, especially mask-wearing.
Multi-faceted measures, such as lockdowns and closures of borders, schools and workplaces, need further analysis to assess their potential negative effects on populations.
Results from more than 30 studies from around the world were analysed in detail, showing a statistically significant 53 per cent reduction in Covid cases with mask-wearing and a 25 per cent reduction with physical distancing.
