Scientists at the University of California suggest that face masks could make the wearer immune to coronavirus by acting as a «vaccine.»
The researchers behind the theory say that wearing a face mask can cause mild or asymptomatic infections in wearers.
According to experts, if the theory is proven, masks could become a universal form of vaccination that induces immunity.
Repeated exposure to small amounts of Covid-19 can train the body's cells to recognize and fight disease by effectively building immunity.
The experts emphasized that this is still only a theory, and warned those who wear masks not to relax and not try to get infected with the virus in the hope that it will strengthen the immune system.
To test the hypothesis, scientists will need more research comparing the strength and longevity of SARS-CoV-2 T-cell immunity in asymptomatic and symptomatic people, and to demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2 spread naturally in regions with a high proportion of asymptomatic infections.
Critics of the theory fear that it will make people feel falsely secure or even nudge people to take unnecessary risks.
Saskia Popescu, an epidemiologist and infectious disease specialist in Arizona who was not involved in the study, said:
“We still want people to follow all the [coronavirus] prevention guidelines. This means staying vigilant, avoiding crowds, keeping distancing and hygiene practices. »
