[oblib]

I really don't know what to make of that. I can say we did make a point to keep a distance from others, changed our masks pretty often, and we both used hand sanitizer when we were out in public spaces, so it's possible that made a difference.

We were both in our 60s when this crud began, the low end of the high risk group, so could be were more cautious than most.

[devmor]

I’m sure that the aggregate of cautious behavior by people who are willing to wear masks is responsible for at least some of the perceived effectiveness.

My wife and I also have worn masks a lot - but we also tend to avoid crowded indoor events almost entirely now, and use hand sanitizer whenever we leave a public place. We were also quick to get each of our vaccinations.

[vondur]

I think it’s hard to tell with all of the variables involved. I tried to stay away from crowded indoor locations. I wore masks when they were required and wasn’t infected.

[eschaton]

Wearing a mask is more effective at preventing you from spreading virus particles if you’re infected than it is at preventing you from being infected.

[kadoban]

True, but mostly because it lacks specifics.

Wearing a N95 mask correctly and washing your hands consistently is _quite_ effective at protecting you (and others).

Wearing a nonsense cloth mask, not terribly well fitted, protects you a little bit but mostly protects others some.

In between those it varies.

Nothing does much if you're not washing your hands before touching your face.

People also ignore that initial viral load can be a lot lower from masks (depending) even if you do get infected, which can help with severity.