The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says mask-wearing is a good way to prevent a trifecta of respiratory illnesses, prompting outrage among Americans who feel the agency is deploying a polarizing COVID-19 tool against viruses that have been around for decades but never triggered similar guidance.
CDC Director Rochelle Walensky said face coverings should be a “high-quality, well-fitting mask to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses,” namely COVID-19, the flu and a respiratory virus known as RSV.
Also, the CDC is considering whether it should take into account viruses like the flu or RSV when it determines the “community level” of COVID-19 risk.