[Christmas article: The effect of correct use of face masks in preventing disease transmission in a standardised study population].

INTRODUCTION

Through centuries, face masks have been used by health professionals to prevent disease transmission. Currently, there is an increased use of face masks due to the corona pandemic. However, the preventive effect of face masks is still unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of correct use of face masks, without touching the face, in the prevention of disease transmission in a standardised study population.

METHODS

We used a standardised study population consisting of Danish cakes "kajkager". One kajkage was wearing a face mask and one kajkage did not wear a face mask, n=2. Kajkager consist of approximately 100% sugar. Since kajkager have no arms, correct use of the face mask was guaranteed. The study population was placed in a hospital setting and observed for six months regarding weight, surface and filling. Changes in these parameters were used as a surrogate measure of disease transmission.

RESULTS

After the six months observation period, both study groups had a similar decline in weight. We observed no significant differences on the surface, but the kajkage wearing a facemask had a slightly fresher filling.

CONCLUSION

Correct use of face masks has no significant effect on weight, surface or filling in kajkager and therefore no effect on disease transmission in this study population. Thus, in December when the Danish population consumes very large quantities of sugar, health personnel may omit using face masks without an increased risk of disease transmission.

FUNDING

none.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

none.