Here's How Masks Work: Watch This Germ Experiment

Aug 5, 2022

Have you wondered just how face masks work to help stop the spread of COVID-19? This video shows how easily germs can spread when someone is not wearing a mask, compared with someone who is wearing a mask.

Rebecca Fisher, Ph.D., scientific director for education outreach at Ochsner Health, demonstrates in this experiment just how effective masks are in preventing droplets from spreading. In the experiment, Dr. Fisher talks, sneezes and coughs on to plates to capture respiratory droplets that contain bacteria. She did a version of the experiments while wearing a mask, and while not wearing a mask.

Later, Dr. Fisher shows the plates with bacteria growing on them from the version of the experiment she conducted while not wearing a mask. Yuck! Watch the full experiment.

Learn about COVID-19 and antibody testing at Ochsner.

Why Is It Important to Wear Face Masks?

No one wants to accidentally spread the virus to someone who might have severe complications if they catch it. If you wear a mask and practice social distancing when out in public, you can feel good about knowing you are part of your community's effort to slow the spread of COVID-19.

How to Correctly Put On and Take Off Your Mask And Gloves

Cloth face coverings and gloves have become a common sight in our stores, restaurants and other public places, but it’s important you know how to properly put on and take off each item.