With medical experts discussing the low-tech features of masks to avoid taking in and transmitting the coronavirus via the “atomization” process of sneezing and coughing, I began to wonder if those droplets are gathering on those beards so popular in our region.
So I researched such a question on Google and, sure enough, full beards can be the forgotten source of hidden virus atomization. It turns out, the unseen mist of the airborne virus, both outgoing from a cough or sneeze, and incoming from infected others, can be trapped in all that facial fur which can then deliver those invisible droplets to others.
And, since a paper mask cannot seal properly against the skin of the face with a beard, the mask does little good, if any.
While the amount of risk for bearded men is up for discussion, there seems to a general concern. Dr. Anthony Fauci has more recently told us, even talking can transmit the invisible atomized droplets. Which means efficient masking is more necessary than we originally thought.
Thus, the recommendation is, go clean-shaven until this pandemic has passed.
Men can grow another beard with the all-clear from the experts.
David OhmanDurango
