The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has included widespread use of PPE such as face shields and masks in its recommendations report for easing restrictions. Experience and evidence suggest that health care workers rarely acquire infections during this pandemic while caring for patients when proper PPE is used effectively and that most of their infections are acquired in communities where PPE is typically not worn.
Evidence to date strongly suggests that SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted by infectious droplets in close proximity to the eyes, nose, or mouth of a susceptible person - much like any other respiratory virus. Barriers to respiratory droplets that are simple and easy-to-use combined with avoiding touching the face can help prevent person-to-person transmission when stay-at-home measures and physical distancing are not possible.
