The Center for Epidemic Operations Research (CEIR) at the Institute of Public Health (FHI) is conducting research to increase understanding of infection control measures and how they work. Now they are starting to study the masks.
“In the last three years, several actions have been introduced, often based on a narrow knowledge base, that have a large impact on people and business. If another pandemic hits, it's important for us to know more about how measures such as face mask requirements work, says center manager Atle Fretheim.
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Want to wear a mask for two weeks?
There is plenty of evidence that wearing a mask helps protect against the spread of infection. However, there is a great deal of uncertainty as to how much that protection is. To gain more knowledge, FHI is now starting to study the mask:
“Anyone willing to wear a mask for 14 days when out among people can contribute,” says Atle Fretheim, head of the FHI Center for Epidemic Agents Research (CEIR).
FHI wants to recruit around 5000 participants from Norwegian residents. The study is a randomized trial. This means that enrollees are randomly divided into two groups, one of which must wear a mask and the other not.
After two weeks, all participants must complete a short survey, including on the symptoms of respiratory infections. Participants who are selected to wear a mask are not required to wear one at work or at home. However, they must express their willingness to wear a mask during their free time and on their way to and from work.
"By comparing the incidence of respiratory infections in the two groups, we can see if the mask protects," says Runar Solberg, head of the research project.
5000 participants from Norwegian residents
Many viruses are currently circulating, giving scientists a good opportunity to assess the effect of the mask on the wearer.
"If we observe someone wearing a mask on a bus or in a shop, it's probably a person who is socially responsible by taking part in the study," concludes Solberg.
Everyone who participates in the study will be entered into the draw for a NOK 5000 gift card.
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Source: Institute of Public Health
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