(07 Sep 2021, 9:23 pm)big mac wrote Even though in general mask compliance has definitely massively reduced, I still was genuinely taken aback by the sheer extent that it had reduced on buses, given that public transport is often mentioned as one of the main areas where it still should be done. 

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Given that the current death rate of people testing positive is less than 0.5% (and in reality, a lot lower than that due to asymptomatic and unreported cases), and the fact that I test myself regularly, I feel confident that A: when I go out I don't have it, and B: if I do get it, I'll be fine.

I don't know the exact stats, but from the top of my head I believe that the accuracy of a lateral flow test is higher than, or at least equivalent to, the efficacy of mask in reducing the spread of the virus (feel free to fact check that, I may be wrong). So if, as we're told, masks protect others, and I've tested negative, what is the issue with me not wearing one?

Obviously, it comes down to personal choice and a person's evaluation of the risks.


As a side note, I don't know if anyone else has noticed the same, but when masks became mandatory social distancing in places like supermarkets basically stopped. To me, a mask gives a greater illusion of safety than it does actually provide.