Published Sep 1, 2020

Face Shields Are Not As Effective Against COVID-19 As We’d Hoped; What Cancer Patients Should Know

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Face Shields During COVID-19

Researchers found in a new study that face shields alone are not effective in preventing people from being exposed to COVID-19.
Since there is an opening at the bottom of the shield, it’s still possible that particles from coughing or sneezing can travel into the face shield.
Experts suggest everyone wear surgical masks, or masks made of high-quality cloth, to prevent exposure

Face shields, being worn by more and more people as protection from COVID-19, is not doing what many hoped it would do, when being worn alone. During this outbreak, we’re all trying to find ways to stay safe and avoid the virus, while also trying to figure out a way to be comfortable with these new precautions. Masks have proven to be effective, but the full face shields some choose to sport for extra precaution, may not actually be doing much.

“As students return to schools and universities, some have wondered if it is better to use face shields, as they are more comfortable and easier to wear for longer periods of time,” Siddhartha Verma, one the authors of Visualizing Droplet Dispersal for Face Shields and Masks with Exhalation Valves, tells SurvivorNet. “But what if these shields are not as effective? You would be essentially putting everyone in a tight space with droplets accumulating over time, which could potentially lead to infections.”

In a new study for the American Institute of Physics, Verma and other researchers found that even though these shields may protect you from someone potentially sneezing or coughing around you, the droplets can still pass through the open end at the bottom of the shield easilymaking you succsptible to exposure. To best protect yourself, it’s recommended you wear a solid cloth mask, remembering to combine that with frequent hand washing and social distancing.

Dr. Brieze Keeley Bell explains when cancer patients should stay home during COVID-19 and when to call their doctor

Guidance for Cancer Patients During COVID-19

As the outbreak continues to hit other cities, it’s still important we all follow Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s recommended guidelines. This is especially true for cancer patients, since being immunocompromised while going through treatment can make them especially at risk of health complications if exposed to the virus.

Wear a secure mask that covers both your nose and mouth
Siddhartha Verma recommends purchasing either surgical masks or masks made with high-quality cloth
If someone is around, keep six feet apart and make sure they are also wearing a mask
Stay home as much as possible, and avoid large crowds
Consult your doctor immediately if you exhibit any symptoms or have been exposed to someone who tested positive

Dr. Heidi Gray explains how hospitals are handling treatment and keeping cancer patients safe during COVID-19

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