@43613d1f 

Hi, expert here. I have worked for 2 years as a COVID-19 research scientists.

Yes masks can help reduce infection when worn properly, though this does take training and you should be far more mindful, as improper use may create a false sense of safety... So use a mask if you are at particular risk, but be sure to learn proper safety.

That said also dont let posts like this paint a picture that COVID is "back" like it was before I is around, and it is here to stay, so it always will be. But the current infection rates in the USA is on the order of magnitude of a small fraction of what it was pre-lockdown (about 1/10th) and the death rate is even much smaller than that. So yes be mindful, practice good practices, but as an expert I assure you, no need for panic or over-the-top alarm either... be responsible, and live your life.