Do Masks Work or Not?

Although the numbers may be low, COVID-19 and other illnesses remain a significant threat to patients. The role of masks in preventing SARS-CoV-2 spread has been politicized since the beginning. A new meta-analysis purports to answer the question of mask effectiveness. Join host Geoff Wall, with guest Jake Galdo, as they deep dive into the article and evaluate the science.The GameChangerA new meta-analysis suggests that mask mandates do not affect the prevention and spread of COVID-19. However, the study has numerous limitations and errors, making its interpretation difficult.Show Segments00:00 - Introductions01:31 - Pros and Cons of a Meta-Analysis06:31: Looking at the Analysis10:24 - The GameChanger: Jefferson et al. Results11:24 - Connecting to Practice: Recognizing Limitations28:43 - Closing Remarks HostGeoff Wall, PharmD, BCPS, FCCP, CGPProfessor of Pharmacy Practice, Drake UniversityInternal Medicine/Critical Care, UnityPoint HealthJake Galdo, PharmD, MBA, BCPS, BCGPCourse Content and Developer, CEimpactManaging Network Facilitator, CPESN Health EquityCEO, SeguridadReferences and ResourcesJefferson T, Dooley L, Ferroni E, et al. Physical interventions to interrupt or reduce the spread of respiratory viruses (Review). Cochrane Library.  Novella S. Masks Revisited. Science Based Medicine. Redeem your CPE hereCPE (Pharmacist) Get a membership & earn CE for GameChangers Podcast episodes (30 mins/episode)Pharmacists: Get a membershipCE InformationLearning ObjectivesUpon successful completion of this knowledge-based activity, participants should be able to:1. Discuss the pros and cons of a meta-analysis2. Describe the limitations of the Jefferson et al meta-analysis0.05 CEU/0.5 HrUAN: 0107-0000-23-119-H01-PInitial release date: 03/22/2023Expiration date: 03/22/2024Additional CPE and CME details can be found here.Follow CEimpact on Social Media:LinkedInInstagram