Anthony Fauci says... Face Mask Wasn't Necessary

Anthony Fauci says... Face Mask Wasn't Necessary

March 8, 2020

Dr. Anthony Fauci, Donald Trump’s infectious disease expert and member of the White House coronavirus task force, explained why wearing a face mask wasn’t necessary, in fact is nothing more than a way to make you feel better.

When it comes to preventing coronavirus, public health officials have been clear: Healthy people do not need to wear a face mask to protect themselves from COVID-19.

"There's no reason to be walking around with a mask," infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci told 60 Minutes.

While masks may block some droplets, Fauci said, they do not provide the level of protection people think they do. Wearing a mask may also have unintended consequences: People who wear masks tend to touch their face more often to adjust them, which can spread germs from their hands.

Face masks are vital for health care providers and for patients with “confirmed” or “suspected” COVID-19.

For healthy people, both the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend they wear masks only when taking care of those who are “sick” or “suspected” of having the virus.