Should You Use Masks Considering the New COVID Variants? Specialists Share Their Views.

With the emergence of three new COVID-19 variants, the public is questioning the need for mask mandates once again.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) hasn't updated mask guidelines, some businesses and educational institutions are reinstating mask requirements. Experts advise taking your personal circumstances into account.

During seasons when flu, RSV, and COVID are prevalent, Dr. Céline Gounder, a medical expert for CBS News and KFF Health News, suggests that "those over 65 and immunocompromised individuals should think about wearing masks in indoor public spaces. For the rest, it depends on their risk comfort."

Dr. Jon LaPook of CBS News often uses a weather analogy to make his point clearer: "If it's raining, you'd carry an umbrella. Similarly, if airborne diseases like COVID, flu, or RSV are rampant in your area, consider wearing a quality mask indoors."

COVID Variants and Masks

Following a nearly 22% increase in COVID hospitalizations this week, the CDC predicts further surges as new variants propagate. This updates previous forecasts of stable or uncertain hospital admission trends.

In a 2021 "60 Minutes" segment, virologist Paul Duprex discussed the emergence of new variants. When asked by LaPook about curbing the virus's swift mutations, Duprex replied, "We can limit its mutation by reducing infections. This includes wearing masks, getting vaccinated, and maintaining social distance."

After news broke of the BA.2.86 variant, the CDC maintained its prior advice, emphasizing the importance of wearing quality masks.

LaPook shared that he assesses his upcoming two weeks when deciding on precautions. "If I can't afford to fall ill or will meet someone at high risk, I'll be extra cautious," he noted.

However, Dr. Danielle Ompad from the NYU School of Global Public Health expressed concerns about convincing Americans to mask up again. She remarked, "Reintroducing masks is challenging; people react strongly against it." Nevertheless, she's started masking in crowded places with higher exposure risks. 

On a recent "CBS Mornings" episode, Gounder mentioned she'd be wearing a mask for an upcoming trip, suggesting others consider the same, especially in crowded venues.

Although COVID cases are rising, Gounder believes another lockdown isn't on the horizon. "That ship has sailed," she commented.